I know I've lived my days reminiscing

On every choice,

Every single word I've said,

Every single action I've ever carried out.

One thing I'm sure of is this:

I do have a heart

A good heart.

I didn't let my trauma and turbulent experiences

Get the best of me,

Neither did I use my wounds as swords

To pierce others for the injustice done to me.

I couldn't bring myself to do that.

I wanted to be different from my nightmares.

Growing up with abuse,

Like it mattered more than water,

Being bullied by street kids and their mothers,

Never knowing a full day of happiness.

And the nights

Oh, the nights were heavier.

Terror ruled over the dark.

I only knew fear, hurt, and self-consciousness

Not the positive kind.

I always felt out of place.

My wounds were badges of honour,

Hidden from the public,

Hidden from predators,

And yet,

I still smiled.

I still lived right.

I never want to treat others

According to what I've been through.

I chose to have a good heart,

One that carries everyone.

Because I do not want to be

The reason another wounded soul

Is made.