The Art of Beginning
Don't shy from the sting of embarrassment,
When first you step into the ring.
No master's grace was built in a day,
It took many fails to learn how to swing.
Let the novice be marked by his stumbling,
By fists dropped and feet out of place.
Keep eyes on the horizon before you,
Though red burns today on your face.
For this is the price to be paid in advance,
If ever great skill you hope to obtain.
Stay far from the siren song of complacency,
Embrace the discomfort that comes before gain.
Years from now you will yearn for these days,
When you fumbled and wobbled and tried.
For the victories taste so much sweeter,
When paid for in early tears and pride.
So do not from the work shy away,
Avoiding the novice's pitfalls.
Keep dancing, keep swinging, keep starting anew,
One day you will heed the bell's calls.