If you want me, get me slowly, step by step,
with lots of good thoughts in your head
with your heart filled with love just for me.
If you want me, do not rush,
take your steps slow but steady,
and if you ever stumble on a rock of frustration,
I would appreciate it if you could think of me.
If you want me, do not throw an empty compliment,
a used, recycled phrase,
a typical gesture of pity to me
if you want me, you should first study me,
to know my liking,
my dislikes, the depth of my soul, my heart
to know if my heart is pure or slightly tainted.
If you want me
you have to be enriched with philosophy
improved ethically, morally, actively
If you want me, don’t stare my way—come closer, braver
and honest next to me
If you want me
you have to be independent,
free of laziness, clutter, and messiness in your head
You must be in love with nature, aware of your true nature.
If you want me, you must be religion-free
No prayers at night, no fear of God,
empty of phrases, preaches, and unsentimental thoughts
If you want me
you have to be honest and passionate about your kind.
Shahla Latifi
December 2022