They sold me dreams in deadlines wrapped,
But peace kept slipping through the cracks.
A title’s shine can’t warm the soul,
When joy is taxed to meet the goal.

I chased applause, ignored the ache,
Till silence taught me what’s at stake.
Now, I rise with softer light
Not to conquer, but to feel right.

Because the real win isn’t the race,
It’s finding calm in your own pace.

Simi