Grit your Teeth

I lack natural brilliance, yet I grind away persistently.

For diligence trumps inherent gifts

when natural talents succumb to laziness.

The road ahead appears uncertain,

a desolate landscape bereft of hope.

Yet surrendering to despair would betray oneself.

Reason alone cannot untangle this reality,

for sometimes what it seems isn't black or white.

Sometimes potential lies within the realm of what it could be.

Hope, amidst hopelessness, defines our humanity.

Our repertoire encompasses stubbornness, arrogance, and folly.

And we are also compassionate, benevolent, and nurturing in equal measure.

It doesn't need to make much sense.

Occasionally, rationality fails to serve us.

When nothing is going right,

you can justify your circumstances with logic,

or you can strive with all your might.

Perfection need not be the goal,

your utmost efforts shall suffice.

And if everything fails,

just grit your teeth and fight tooth and nail.