𝗟𝗜𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗔𝗥𝗬: "On My Own" by Jasmine Louise A. Bacud

Layout by: Charisse Mae Suson Ardeza

Published by: Dionne Jheoff A. Mendoza

Date Published: April 3, 2025

Time Published: 9:16 AM

Category: Poetry

Subject: Being nervous about leaving for college

I spent years dreaming of getting away,

My own space, my own say.

No one telling me what to do,

Just me, my plans, and something new.

But now it's closer, I'm starting to feel small,

Like realizing I don't know anything at all.

Feels like I'm in the middle of an ocean—trying to stay afloat.

With waves of fear and doubt filling up my throat.

"Will I or will I not have a blast?"

My hopes roll in, then pull back fast.

Shivering and alone, I'll think, "It's kinda cold..."

But isn't this what—to myself, I always told?

I wanted this, so why the fear?

Why am I hoping home will still feel near?

Independence? I'm afraid it's not my thing.

'Cause to my roots, undeniably, I still cling.

No home-cooked meals, no "Good night, sleep tight."

Just echoes of silence when I turn off the light.

Bills and budgets, alarms I can't snooze,

No random pep talks I can't refuse.

Is it thrilling? Terrifying? It's all way too real—

Like riding a bike with no training wheels.

But maybe, just maybe—I'll figure it out.

Learn what "growing up" is really about.

The world is huge, and I'm meant to explore,

Scared as I am, I know I want something more.