Collaborating would improve me, I know,
by increasing my experience,
the range of ideas,
and the breadth of what I can do.

Collaborating would also leave me dependent on others,
and that’s not something
I’m in favor of.

Accepting weakness when I can avoid it
is almost always the preferred plan,
even if it proves limiting.
It ends up leaving me in control,
independent, able to do what I want whenever I wish.

I really appreciate that opportunity.
It says something about my smallness,
the pettiness within,
but I’ve kept me alive so far.

Of course, a wise collaborator might ask
whether it’s allowed me to thrive.
But I don’t have any collaborators,
do I?