My philosophy

I stopped chasing people long ago
and those who wanted to stay, still remain

I’ve learned that we can’t hold on
to those who need a new view

We can’t stifle the ones
who we thought would stay forever

Every person has one life to live

If we don’t allow others to grow and change
and make their own decisions
then they won’t be able to live
the way they choose

I would never want to hold someone back
from following their dreams and ambitions

In fact, I’d much rather be completely alone
for the rest of my life
than to cause anyone heartache

Fortunately, I’m surrounded every day
by people who have chosen to be near me
and I cherish every single person
who has stood by me through thick and thin

I believe I have the best life
anyone could possibly have
because I’ve let go of those
who weren’t meant for me

© 2026 Michelle Cook


 

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The Art of Letting Go

It’s more than just saying goodbye to things
It’s breaking free from overwhelming desire
It’s relinquishing the constant yearning for more
It’s discovering the secluded shelter within yourself
It’s finding that place of complete acceptance and joy
It’s noticing the room of requirement within your soul
It’s spotting the harbor of hope that gives you courage
It’s unveiling the secret shelter where only you can dwell
It’s going inward to that realm of divine peace and love
It’s exploring the newfound sanctuary within your heart
It’s knowing that you are enough beyond all else
It’s learning to live without the rest of the world

© 2025 Michelle Cook


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Will I have done enough?

I’m trying to be better about reaching out,
to be more intentional with my words,
but oh, how I fail miserably.
There is never enough time
for every person I love
and for every person who loves me.
I wrestle with being able to give enough of myself,
but at the same time,
I’m trying to save some of myself just for me.
Oh, what a predicament!
One day, I will be done trying;
my body will at last wear out,
and I’ll be lost to the wind,
scattered on some sorrowful breeze,
on some unexpected lonesome day.
Will I have done enough?
Maybe it won’t matter
because maybe in the grand scheme of things,
I am just me — a tiny particle of dust
who doesn’t stand a chance
of making any difference at all.

© 2025 Michelle Cook


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Mondayish

Oh, Monday what can I say?
Your clouds aren’t very picturesque today.

Your vibe is off, your face isn’t sunny,
at least my eggs are still soft and runny.

Why are you always such a pill,
while all the other days give me such a thrill.

You make me feel down and somewhat dreary,
and even when you’re shinning I still get leery.

So now I’ve got this Mondayish vibe,
and thanks to you I might not survive.

Could you please be better when you come next,
so I don’t have to feel like I’ve been hexed.

© 2025 Michelle Cook


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You just be you

You just be you,
who cares what others do.

At the end of the day,
they’ll be gone anyway.

Then you’ll be left alone,
another day unknown.

Because none can ever tell
where you inwardly dwell.

That’s the fun of being you,
even if your secrets are few.

Just be happy you exist,
and go on and be remiss.

Your life is yours to live,
you don’t always have to give.

© 2025 Michelle Cook


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