Like A Candle

That I would be used up like a candle.

Enveloped with wax.

Formed in particular shape.

With a wick at my center ready to burn,

charring my insides for the benefit of others.

That I would be used up like a candle.

Picked up with intrigue.

Inhaled with deliberation.

Purchased with thought.

Placed with intention.

That I would be used up like a candle.

Lit for a purpose.

Love, light,

remedy, warmth.

Seeing, holding,

remembering, foreboding.

That I would be used up like a candle.

Temporarily giving until I reach my end.

Knowing I am finite.

Knowing I am short lived.

Being what I am.

No more, no less.

No other function

No other purpose.

No other best.

That I would be used up like a candle.

Author: Erin NeSmith

Erin NeSmith graduated from the University of South Florida in 2003 with a Bachelor of Arts in Interpersonal Communication and a minor in Music. She also earned her Professional Coaching Certification as a life coach in 2016. Mrs. NeSmith has spent the majority of her career serving at-risk populations as a Re-entry Counselor, Teacher, and Program Director at New Life Village, a intergenerational adoptive community. She has a strong desire to partner with at-risk teens through coaching and mentoring as they become the best version of themselves. To that end, she founded Grow Into You Foundation, Inc. in 2016, which seeks to plant hope, shift perspectives, and restore power to at-risk youth, particularly those in and aging out of the foster care system. Mrs. NeSmith enjoys spending time with her husband and three children, reading professional development books, clowning (no, really!), singing and songwriting and participating in karaoke nights with friends.