The prize, just keep your eye on the prize. The buzzer sounds as I stuff my face, not daring to lose this race. Hot dog after hot dog, I don't slow down. Victory is in my sight, there's no stopping me now. The buzzer dings, my hands held high in the air. I've won, completely fair and square.

My imagination runs rampant. Images I cannot control. I fear myself. I can't close my eyes or they'll creep inside. These far off lands own me, I'm only a vessel to tell their twisted stories.

If you could have it all, everything your heart desires would you try? Just a sip, they said, your dreams will come to life. What happens when the drink runs dry? Your aspirations shrivel, you confidence wilts.

So, will you take a sip?

This emptiness swallows me whole. Please hear my prayers! I yearn for peace, to feel something. Will you send me a sign to prove everything to be alright? I'll wait for it, like I do every night—for you to pass my window, to be my shooting star.

I'll wait for the sign that you are mine.

Overlooked, overworked, underpaid, with no gratitude. You yearn her presence but gripe about mine. "It's too hot, too bright." I'm never 'just right.' Without me, you couldn't survive, couldn't thrive in this life you call yours.

See how well she treats you. Her glow dissipates with my darkness. Envy runs through me. You don't deserve to see.

Nothing runs without me.

when i look at you
my stomach flutters
your smile makes me gleam
i love you

your laugh is perfect
each chuckle makes me grin
basking in your joy
i love you

the lovingness is so pure
the cuddles so protecting
i feel safe with you
i love you

be mine forever
staying side by side
loving til the day we die
i love you

i'll say it
if you'll say it too
just two words
i love you

I do.

have you ever felt your memories crawl up your throat?
the pain of each nightmare coming afloat.
the flashbacks swallow you whole.
there's no hope for your soul.

do you live your terrors day after day?
the corrupted thoughts won't go away.
its blade slices your skin
allowing the bad thoughts in.

save me.
hear me.
pull me from this pit
please, before i quit.

give up on this.
it's them you'll miss.
release me
subdue me

please let me be free.