I walked right into it 

A homework assignment from my therapist 
A circle of what i can control 
Surrounded by a bigger circle of what i 
Cannot 
I said writing it out makes it feel real 
Unlike the shortcuts to coping skills i 
Have in my brain, bookmarked 
I take the time, a light green pen 
Make it whimsy, i say 
As i write & write & write 
Until i can’t fathom not being able to control 
Anything else not able to be 
Controlled by a strong will & kind intentions
 
I think back to the customer 
Who said the service was friendly,
With a malicious bite to her voice
My kindness will lead to my happiness
So says Panda Express 
I can control my reaction & that southern charm 
I can control the smile that crept across my lips 
I can control what I put into this world 
& I refuse to infuse it with more hatred
 
I write & write & write 
Until I wish & wish & wish there 
Was actually less I could control 
I’m too self aware of the thoughts 
Swirling constantly & the coping skills I 
Could use to ease the anxiety