these words you say,
they absorb into my skin.
they absorb into me,
into my heart,
they absorb,
and i can’t get them out.

i wish i could shed my skin like a snake.
i wish i could start fresh, without your words
holding me back.

you are holding me back.
you are the one refusing
to talk about the elephant in the room
staring you down.

you think this is a phase?
it’s been a year since i’ve told you,
and you still won’t get me help
for the thing
i most desperately need help with.