Aho 

Aho, new soul.

I’ll be honest — I haven’t had the best time here.
It’s been harsh and insufferable. I’ve cried a lot,
and been mistreated from time to time.
Kindness was sometimes lacking, and criticism abundant.
Sometimes I feel like I’ve lost more than I’ve gained,
but I’ve resigned to think that this is my lot in life —
and I suppose I’m okay with that.

Hi, new consciousness.

At one point I was just like you —
curious, unblemished, innocent.
I want to help you protect that part of you.
I want to provide the experience I never had.

I will be the stranger on the bus who greets you with a smile.
The encouraging teacher who introduces you to Rudyard Kipling’s If.
The big sister who always shows up.
The father who’s never too proud to say:
“I’m sorry. I misunderstood. I should’ve done better.”

The boss who sees you as a real person,
not just a cog in the machine.
The friend who listens without judging,
and never gossips.
The authority who seeks to understand,
and puts my ego aside.

Howdy, separate consciousness.

You matter to me.
It’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance.
And I am proud to have the unique honor
of making your experience better.