It took me seven years
to realise
the words in my mind
were too deep for
my mouth to dig up
I thought it was easier
to open my skin
and let the truth
pour down my arms

It took me seven years
to realise
nobody should be allowed
to touch parts
of your home
or hold pieces  
of your heart
that you don't yet understand

It took me seven years
to realise
I will wear these scars
forever
I'll carry them
through every smile
every kiss
every concerned gaze
I'll carry them
to my grave

It took me seven years
to realise
the pain carved
into the walls
of my castle
etchings of
attempting to disappear
are not a story of weakness
but a tale of
how I survived

Your flaws and scars are part of what makes
a stronger you
Be proud to wear all of them.
They are a reminder of the battles you’ve won and the trials you’ve endured.
No struggles and accomplishments define
who you are.
Be proud to carry your wounds
and your stories.
You’re not broken.
You are more.
You’re a warrior.

When you cannot stand or face
the person looking back at you,
it might be best to change yourself
instead of changing mirrors.

i am the ocean waves
crashing into your beaches
only to find everyone

and everything

but you...

The ocean
                           is
              everything  she
                 wants to be,
         beautiful, mysterious,
                 wild and free.

                  She was given
                       this  life
             because she is strong
                enough to live it.

                       One day,
                  we  will  never  
                        have to
                   say  goodbye,
                 only   goodnight.

                           She is
                   soft and doesn't
                          let  the
                          world
                   make  her  hard.

                              She
                        doesn't let
                pain make her hate
                    and she will
                            never
                      let bitterness
                            steal
                     her sweetness.
                                                                                       Jon York   2019