For once, I want to put
myself first.
For as long as
I can remember,
I keep pushing myself down
just so other people can float.

For once, I want to make
myself proud.
Proud of who I've become,
what I've endured,
for how long I've battled.
I am a warrior.

For once, I want to love
myself truly and deeply.
Standing straight,
unabashedly,
unforgivingly,
being me.

For once, I want to
prioritize myself.
My health, before
my responsibilities.
I want to heal before
I go out again for war.

For once, I will not
clamp my mouth shut
when people tell me
to keep quiet.
I am made
to be loud.

-m.b