Expectations

This world has so many expectations

we give and give and give

to possibly get something in return

Work ourselves up a ladder

of accomplishments in life

trying to achieve the highest rank

But no one is impressed

when they’re bragged about

with that egotistical sly jerk grin

Only jealousy cringes our brows

left here making tiny steps

towards our much bigger goals

You, high up on your pedestal,

making yourself rise higher

trying to tell us our dreams

of peace and unity

As meaningful as a star shinning

in the night sky begging to be wished

upon with only uncertainty of your wish

ever coming true

You stand there

saying you’re our leader

bashing down your competitors

showing us just how small and weak

you tell us we are

You go inspiring millions

with statements of change

as if you have any control

of this game of wits you created

and stumbled into

Are we to follow you in these footsteps?

To me, there’s no surprise,

with examples such as these

getting paid millions to belittle and bully

Teaching us life’s a struggle

that to win

you have to come out on top

In this contest of popularity

I shall stand aside knowing

these difficulties

aren’t worth the fight

Nor do I have the dying urge

to sit upon your royal throne

withstanding the stress

of holding up your image

So, I’ll remain, here,

in the shadows and let you

stand on in the shimmering spotlight

Because to us, your followers

in this naïve and overly cruel world

You meet all the required expectations