My voice has been undermined for so long, it's time to remind myself that it exists

So what if they all change lunch tables and giggle from across the bay?- I have the green light

And each day I get up, despite the burden school shoves on my back

I am strong-- forged in fights of a dysfunctional nest but my wings have not been clipped.

Each day I am fortified when I come home to see that I must be a mother to my brother and teach him that falling is a part of flying; weakness is the shadow of strength

It’s hard to say this when I cover my own scars to appear indestructible

Yet, now is the time to lose shame:

My skin is not smooth and soft; I paint it everyday with a myriad of colors

But each day, I  use my paints to cover up the scars and I paint a smile

A smile that masks every hole I have- loss, betrayal, insecurity

Everyday I push past the chains that try to yank me back-- my wrists are sore and the scars may never fade but I conceal them under more paint

Like superglue, I appear together when I am really a discombobulated set of parts

But I cover my disjointed parts and feelings and  thoughts with more painted smiles- vivacious red

And I stay strong for others no matter what

Through everything

Even if my world crumbles, and what was once seen as the magnificent Palais Garnier is seen for: a facade, it remains through the wavering notes and supports all of those who come

I am not worthless and useless or a leech, parasitic words that spew from others should are innocuous: I have an unforgettably admirable trait: I stay strong and move on no matter what.