In hushed moments, it whispers in my ear,
A specter called Imposter takes its stand,
It tells me I’m unworthy, insincere,
A phony in this scholar-ladened land.
Though accolades and praise around me ring,
Doubt weaves its web with threads of dissension,
It paints my triumphs with a tarnished sting,
And obscures my thoughts with trepidation.
But let me cast this doubt and fear aside,
I won’t consent to these thoughts that infest.
No mask, no guise, my worth shall never hide,
For I am more than Imposter would attest.
Through self-acceptance, Imposter’s strength wanes.
I’ll rise above, I’ll break free from its chains.
Hayden Coombs 