The Struggle

I have had my innocence ripped from me
I have taken control of my will
I have lived in dark corners
And made my bed behind towering walls
I have forced my eyes to the sun
And my feet to the ground
I have had my heart shattered
And taken my breath through determination alone
I have stared Death in the eye
And fought him for control of my own hand
Depression whispers victim in my ear
Strength cries defiance
Tears reveal vulnerability
Strength binds me together
Fear builds a fortress around my heart
Strength scales the walls
Life brings pain and despair
Strength answers with a dragon’s roar
I will not break


19 lines