One day I strolled through a bookstore and opened a small book with typewriter printing. I have always almost rolled my eyes at poems, as so many of them require so much analyzation and, to me, don't touch me on a personal level. However, curious about the print, I opened up a book that would rid of every hesitation I held toward modern-day poetry.
Tyler Knott Gregson is seldom talked about. In the phase of "Milk and Honey," Rupi Kaur is more commonly spoken of rather than this genius. Don't get me wrong, Rupi Kaur is just as beautifully spoken. To me, however, Tyler Knott Gregson speaks of love and life more deeply than many books and movies could ever ponder. His poems speak to the part of you that you're almost ashamed to have such an emotional connection with. His poetry has changed me and released so many of my little-known emotions toward love to my consciousness.
1. How we all have that one person.
We've all had that one person who, even if you're not thinking about them, sits silently in the back of your mind always.
2. How love is really about growth.
This one has comforted me in understanding that being with someone isn't about being your best version for them. It's about helping each other grow and learn how to love each other's imperfections.
3. How we should all be kind.
I've written before about how being an independent woman doesn't require that you turn cold to the world. This reifies my way of living. Being soft and kind is more important and leaves a bigger mark on people than you'd think; you never know who's going through a trying time, and sometimes the only way you can help to the best of your abilities is to just be kind. It's simple.
4. How we all need to blush sometimes.
This one just makes me blush. I mean come on, how cute is this?
5. How we need to appreciate life.
You don't need to climb mountains, parachute out of a plane, or hike miles to realize how beautiful life is. Sometimes just pausing, taking a breath, and evaluating your situation is enough to give you reassurance of how lovely this life is.
6. How we need to be supportive.
Alright, so kind of a knock-off of Luke Bryan's "Honey Bee," but still, Gregson solidifies the idea that being in love means being a part and supporting almost anything your loved one wishes to be, big or small.
7. How sometimes words just overwhelm us.
I have no explanation for this one. Good God, Tyler Knott Gregson, you're knocking me off my feet over here.
8. How waiting is worth it sometimes.
Sometimes loving means waiting and having faith in moments like these to come.
9. How love has no rules.
Love isn't constitutional; love doesn't keep score of what one has and hasn't done.
10. How you never forget your best love.
You never forget the exact moment you knew.
11. How it's OK to be afraid.
I've read this poem at different stages in my life. I first read it in high school, finding comfort in understanding that no matter where I go to college for my next steps of life, the fact that I am taking that leap at all will set me free. I've read it when during times I felt afraid and helpless, knowing I needed to accept that these feelings are OK as long as I am aware they will pass. I've read it during times of my life that I felt most at ease and happy, and it reminded me of all of the experiences I overcame to make that jump and be on this side of my situation.
