Thank you, Bob. I'm glad you liked this poem and I very much appreciate your feedback.

For me, working on the shadow self is hard work but it’s a starting point. And also, it is an ongoing process— the inner struggle of confronting my shortcomings and learning from it.

Just to elaborate:
In this verse, "I pick a bone with my shadow-self" suggests my inner struggles and critical examination of my own flaws, doubts, or hidden aspects. I’ve used the term "pick a bone with" metaphorically to address my disagreement and disappointment with my shadow side which I need to work on.

By "the lesson of self-learning must commence" I mean, commencing of the process of learning how to self-improve. I feel there's something to be learnt and gained from each experience if I am to embark on the journey of growth and self-discovery.

Thank you so very much once again. Stay blessed.