I woke up early this morning,

Barely slpet last night.

Put my make up on, ate my oatmeal,

Checked my backpack twice.

A million excuses, even more insecurities,

Thought about peers that graduated before me.

Imagined who I could have been 

If only I had stayed in school.

A hearty sigh,

Reminding myself of my strength.

"I am who I am," I say

As I scrape snowflakes off my car. 

"Older and wiser,"

I strut onto campus

Tightening my smile

And the straps of my backpack.