Not an ordinary punishment

You might not realise it yet.
In fact, I’m fairly sure you don’t.
But the only punishment you’ll get from me is a lack of punishment.
I’m not going to shout and scream and get angry.
Or throw things around and trash the place.
Because, in the end, it’s only me who’ll get hurt by that reaction.
You’ll feel vindicated. And maybe even a little relieved.
No, I’m going to maintain my belief in acceptance and compassion.
In refusing to get bogged down, or pulled backwards, by blame and guilt.
Even when you maintain yours in self-preservation and a desperation for justification.
And I do it because I believe that it’s the right thing to do.
The fact that it allows me to be at peace with myself and be happy is simply a thankful byproduct.