If I were able to just stop the doubt
That lives about yourself deep in your chest.
Could I just think of one single way how
To show you all the things that you do best.

If I were stronger, I would lift you up,
But so, my gentle touch has to suffice.
If I had influence, to you I'd raise my cup,
But so, our quiet toast does pay the price.

If I were so rich I could buy the stars,
Then I could show you how much you are worth.
But now you don't believe me that you are
One of the most important people on this earth.

Were I a better poet – or a worse,
Then I could write you odes about your eyes.
So I could make you see, could lift the curse
That fills your mirror with its whispered lies.

I'm able not to make all this for you.
So now this poem just will have to do. 

(2021)