To Shaun...

What you see is a lie.
You see me acting strong,
When inside I am weak and weary.
You see me forcing a smile,
While inside, my confidence withers,
Withers away to nothing.

You look past my faults.
When I say I am failing,
You say "getting worse so I can improve."
When I am forced to lie,
You see me "protecting my independence,"
Independence I cannot have.

What you give me is hope.
I long to find love,
And you are the only one who cares.
I wish for a future,
And you're the only one I see in it,
In it to stay.

~Aubriana Jamese Johnston~
Written February 10, 2007