You are the teacher
Fear in unfamiliar hearts and eyes
You watched with courage,
Reflecting emotions tucked away
Smashed the ice and reached
Into our inner reserves
Gave us the mottled world
As you had devoured it
Forced it back up, only to
Drive it down our throats
Wide-eyed stares
Readied to take it and much more

You are the challenger
Silent steps into the torture chamber
Glimpsing minute seconds
Their mélange of grace and momentum
Observed by crossed arms, steel gaze
I sneak commands,
Snapshots of apprentices
Into my brain
Unfold them from mind to body
Find strength to take on impossibilities

You are the role model
Look branded by a smirk
A reality like none other
Found in your unpredictability
Overflow of intoxicating energy
Stabs of harsh honesty
Unappreciated, often called-for
You won’t be ignored
Nor undeterred, nor found to be wrong
Imperfections displayed,
Yet still constantly right

You are the inspiration
Creativity spewed out,
Frantically trying to
Live up to the standard
Project after project
Welded into magic in your name
Your life embodies this magic
Your muchness is unforgettable
Nonconformity draws you
You ecstasy is a magnet
Drawing attention, the soul of a nation

You are a hero, a villain
A feeling, a power,
A will, a force, a notion
Untold knowledge

You are…