Pain they say is your friend
But it is also your enemy.
Be careful when it starts to bend,
It can break you completely.

Take small breaks from your pain
Every once in a little while.
Laugh at yourself or with a friend -
If you can’t laugh, smile.

Tell pain enough is enough
When you’ve learned your lesson.
After washing, turn the shower off
And you can now start dressing

Up, stepping out and showing up,
Changing your narrative.
Not pain but joy is the overflowing cup
That we drink to eternally live.

Che Chidi Chukwumerije
Poems from the inner river