No Exception

If it would be easier
To let it pass

I notice that moment
And slow down

I don’t argue with the impulse

And I don’t dismiss it

I just don’t follow it
Through

If something technically fits
Inside the limits

I check whether it belongs there
Longer than I need to

I don’t stretch the definition
To make it work

And I don’t treat convenience
As a reason

No exception
Not this time

If saying yes
Would reduce the friction

I accept the friction
Instead

I don’t frame it as discipline

And I don’t explain the choice

I just let the cost
Remain

If there’s a version of this
That would feel lighter

I leave it unused
Without comparing it

Nothing here is broken

Nothing needs correcting

And nothing improves
By being allowed through

No exception
Still holds

I move on