Advice for My Younger Self

Don't let them talk 
you into being ambitious, 
which can turn into being vicious. 
Don't make yourself sick with fear 
over the thought of a career. 
You'll learn little worthwhile in school 
that you couldn't learn 
yourself by the side of a pool 
on some sunny afternoon 
with a book in hand. 
Drink it all in, 
keep your eyes open, 
feel the air on your skin, 
and learn to love all it holds within. 
Make enough money to get by 
but never give away more of your time 
than you can afford. 
You're not guaranteed any more.