Our Most Inspiring Love Letter to Your Thesis is a poem by a PGR who wishes to remain anonymous, but who has shown us the potential for confidence, self-esteem, and personal power that research can have.

My Dearest Thesis,

I have been contemplating writing to you for a while,

but I was scared of being too hostile,

It is no secret that we had a tumultuous start.

I almost did not take you on due to my weak heart.

Wondering if you will feel proud.

You, I almost failed to acquire,

My bully fuelling the fire.

Will you do it?

Can you do it?

Are you smart enough? He asked.

No! I wanted to shout.

I think you are stupid! He spout out.

Somehow the stars aligned and things worked out.

I decided to raise you despite my self-doubt.

Dormant voices quietly whisper.

Smirking, I see him, the voices get louder.

Asking how I am doing? What are YOU about?

Unwilling to disclose, I nonchalantly respond.

Dreading his opinion of you, of me.

Tears don't stop when I think you can’t be.

It has been two years and I have yet to fight my demons.

But you will be, I guarantee.

This I promise you, I will give you my all.

I will give you my all. I WILL give you my all.

No regrets.

No excuses.

All these challenges, all these thorns,

All these provocations, all these walls,

I will break them.

And when I am done with you,

I will defend you my precious.

No, I am not stupid! I will shout.

Open and unpretentious.

This I pray.

Yours truly,

Well-wisher