I am not the first
Thankfully
Legions have tasted truths and soldiered on
Their whispers soften my thoughts
Putting my heart in my mouth
So you hear music even in my candour 

I am not the original
Gratefully
Pioneers disciplined their passion into art
Their dedication cast my creativity
Fore-bearers connected to re-interpret originals
So you behold beauty even from my conventionalities 

I am not the model
Miraculously
Ancestors confronted loss and leaned into generosity
Their repercussions model my ideals
Prompting intentions into actions
So you witness humanity even through adversity

B. Toner December 2022