so often i am told

I have been told not to walk barefoot,
As to not get calluses
But I can think of nothing more gratifying than walking
With naked feet
On freshly cut grass,
Or toasted burning pavement.

I have been told to keep my hair up
And out of my face so I can see the world.
But the kalidascope that my bangs make on a windy day
Make the trees and sky glitter and shine

I have been told keep my nails well kempt
And my clothing clean
But I cant play a violin if my nails shine and grow.
And I have never once managed to stay clean
on a long summer run

I have been told many things.
But often I find
That in the end the day
I am happy with my callused feet,
And my tussled hair
And my tattered clothes.
So I will go on
And ignore

What I am so often told.