If I was supposed to
be defined by grades on
a paper, or by words in
a dictionary

I wouldn’t have
been born human.

If I was supposed to
be confined by margins
on an essay, or by stars
on a flag.

I wouldn’t have
the ability to create.

If I was supposed to
be defined by hatred
to my name or by my
disgraceful past.

I wouldn’t have
been born me.

Reaching out to catch you and save you from the fall
so many times I caught you and warned you of that wall.
I’m holding onto you in every possible way
Overpowered by your strength I’m begging you to stay
My eyes are pouring tears as I watch you try to cross a weak and broken bridge
Where I’ve seen too many fall from the never returning edge
As the waters run rapid like a raging beast below your feet
Waters so powerful even you cannot defeat
This is the place I’ve warned you of so many times before
The place where I can’t save you anymore
Your ears have grown deaf to me as your eyes have turned from blue to black
The devil of addiction has taken you as I fight to get you back