In sad songs and heartbroken poems
you always hear about the kids
who are told they won't make it.
That they will be nothing when they're old.
For once I want to hear something about the kids
who are told that they should be
and will be
everything.
Only to come to the realization
at 14,
that they can't do everything.
That sometimes,
you try, and you try, and you try,
but it's just not enough.
That sometimes,
you just can't do it.
Sometimes,
you're just not smart enough.
Sometimes,
you're just not quick enough.
Sometimes,
you just can't live up
to the expectations
that have been given to you
since you were born.

It started as a gnawing
in my stomach- not
butterflies of love
but the anticipation
of flirting with death.

There after, I'd race cars
down empty streets and
sing louder than the speakers
overpowering blue and red
sirens behind me.

Liquor rolled down my throat
like dice on the gambling table
the first time I bet my luck and
held your hand.

Midnight's like those were the
times when the barrels of loaded
guns seemed as tempting
as the sweet kiss of your lips.