You always write yourself out of the story
editing yourself into some smaller role
again and again
until you’re eased into a corner
and then finally out of the scene.
You might think you’ve faded
into the woodwork
but I’ve seen it happen.
You’re a disappearer.

You don’t have to do that.
You needn’t step aside for others.
You’re as important as the next.
You can look in the mirror sometimes
and say “that life matters.”
I look at you and think that often.

I wish that you didn’t place yourself
in relief so often
when you are such a blessed contrast
to all about.
You needn’t write yourself out of the story.
It’s your damned script;
why should you flip it?