I hated to be touched.
I could not stand the feel
Of another's hand against my skin.

I hated company.
For I was too afraid
Of what others were capable of.

I hated to be loved.
I never did believe
Those three little words too often said.

I hated myself.
For I found no worth;only anger
Trapped inside my ever open eyes.

But then,

You came along.

Now I love to be touched.
Only by your loving hand
Often stroking my rosy cheeks.

I love to be around people.
For you taught me how to find
Those you would never mean any harm.

Now I love to be loved.
For you taught me how to feel
All the good more than the bad.

Now I love myself.
For you taught me how to find my soul
Behind the darkened shards of broken glass.

I thought I wanted death.
Then you came along;
You taught me how to live




For you taught me how to breathe