Summer Waters

“Think, but don’t fret.
Ponder, but don’t worry.
Contemplate, but don’t fuss.
Decide, but don’t agonize.
Speak, but don’t babble.
Emphasize, but don’t exaggerate.
Debate, but don’t argue.
Confront, but don’t offend.
Challenge, but don’t provoke.
Praise, but don’t flatter.
Respect, but don’t cower.
Defy, but don’t threaten.
Oppose, but don’t antagonize.
Contradict, but don’t alienate.
Bow, but don’t yield.
Humor, but don’t insult.
Honor, but don’t idolize.
Revere, but don’t worship.
Pamper, but don’t spoil.
Assist, but don’t indulge.
Discipline, but don’t harm.
Chastise, but don’t bruise.
Adapt, but don’t settle.
Nurture, but don’t coddle.
Cherish, but don’t pander.
Admire, but don’t fawn.
Love, but don’t deify.
Extol, but don’t adore.”
― Matshona Dhliwayo