I spoke, with tremor, unconvincing
Empty expressions of my self.
Behind the mask, exploding darkly
Wrenched my soul, encased by stealth
Churned my stomach, for the needing
To be seen, witnessed inside
And with vital organs bleeding
Gushed out all, no sense of pride…

Then waited, breath held, for the moment.
Recognition was denied
No comprehension of my meaning
Nothing there but… suicide?
Deeper stole the soul inside me
Further hidden from the view
Humanity, once more, decried me
And the hopeless darkness grew…

But I am bored with that old story
I have heard it all before
All the pain once stored inside me
Is escaping, I’ve kept score
Of every noxious passing comment
Every barbed and brutal phrase
And too late you may lament
What understanding could have raised.

I have grown, a thorn beside you,
Passionless, politely praised
I have towed the line you drew
Cowering beneath your shade
I have walked a mile in your shoes
Understanding your despair
I’ve been nurtured in your issues
I have learned how not to care.