Be careful, or not.

There are certain phrases that cross my lips so often, as

to make me pause and ask myself

is this my job?

Be careful.  Be quiet.  Be polite.  Be nice.  

Where is it written?  Tell me please.  Who has decreed that

this be my constant belligerent mantra?

Is it not just as much my imperative

to encourage risk

to teach the noisy shout

to cut with the sword that which needs cutting

Be careful, or not.  Take the risk if it is the right risk.

Learn what quiet is.  Let your shout come from the place of quiet, 

and let it be a mighty shout.

Politeness is often nothing but a disguise, and being nice is almost never enough.

Choose kindness and authenticity instead.  

These are the wise words I wish crossed my lips more often,

but I get so tired,

and the moment has passed.