Literary Magazine

Then and Now

In the beginning, laughter filled the air
New friends, memories beyond compare.
But then came nights, heavy with strain
Just to face another school day again.
Classes once easy, now a daunting chore
Crying over assignments, feeling so sore.
Yearning to grow up, leave behind these years
Now missing the joy, eyes filling with tears.
Junior year now, a bit more grown,
Missing the challenges I used to bemoan.
No longer caring about school's daily grind
Putting my mental health at the forefront, I find.
Wishing I could turn back, and relive those days
Bask in the sunshine in carefree ways.
But focusing on my goals working hard and true
Through sweat and effort, my dreams will come due.
Lost my passion and my vision unclear
But every setback brings lessons near.
Took my youth for granted, oh so blind
But it's all shaping me for what's to find.
Wouldn't change a thing despite the strife
It's all part of the journey, building my life.