Rise and Step Up

In a world where I thought I'd be exemplary,
To guide these kids with all my energy,
I soon discovered it's not an easy task,
For my own doubts and shadows I couldn't mask.

I yearned to be a beacon, a guiding light,
But found my own darkness cast a daunting sight,
How could I lead when my path was unclear,
When my burdens weighed me down with fear?

How can I lift others while drowning myself,
When uncertainty engulfs my very self?
I realized these kids must find their own way,
For even I, at times, will fade and sway.

They must forge their own visions and dreams,
For my eyes cannot lend them the light it seems,
Age may have placed me ahead on this road,
But together we'll share the path that's bestowed.

For choices are theirs, as much as they're mine,
To follow the leads they deem most divine,
To learn from both triumphs and mistakes,
And from others' paths, new insights to take.

They can't lean on me forever, I see,
For my existence, too, is not eternity,
These kids must step up, their strength they'll find,
To realize their potential, their purpose aligned.

The time will come when they grasp the truth,
That their destiny lies within their own youth,
With courage and resilience, they'll rise above,
And in their hearts, they'll discover love.

So, step up, dear children, embrace your might,
Let your spirits soar, reach the highest height,
For the world awaits your brilliance and grace,
It's time to claim your dreams, your destined place.