I'm pushing much too hard for what I want
and silence is the answer that I get
for iterated praise can seem a taunt
and early confidence a looming debt.

I'm pulling back too often from my plan
and nuisance noise is filling in the void
for scattered efforts lead to also ran
and late consistency to hope destroyed.

I'm settling down at least I'm trying to
and calm is waiting still to be my guide
for kindly words illuminate anew
and steady possibilities provide.

Yes, patience is a virtue that I know
but holding firm exhausts when things go slow.