A quiet strength, a steady gaze, Not boastful shouts in crowded ways. A knowing glance, a gentle smile, That marks the worth of self a mile. It's in the spine held straight and tall, Responding bravely to the call Of the inner voice, a guiding light, That knows its own inherent right. Not arrogance that seeks to claim A higher ground, a louder name. But dignity in being true, To all you are, in all you do. It blooms within, a silent flower, In moments dark, in trying hours. A resilience, deep and vast, A holding firm to what will last. The artist's hand that crafts with care, The scholar's mind that seeks to share, The builder's skill, the healer's touch, A quiet pride means oh so much. It's in the tears that freely fall, For battles won, beyond the wall Of doubt and fear, a victory won, A quiet pride beneath the sun. So let it grow, this inner fire, A wellspring of true desire To honor self, and stand with grace, And find in being, time and space, A quiet pride, a worthy thing, The song the confident heart will sing.