To the first man I loved
You taught me the harsh truth of this world;
That living is painful, cruel, a burden
I saw it break you bones and tear your skin
I saw you crumble beneath the weight of it
I wish you taught me how to stand up and fight against it

I saw you complacent in your own demise
And learnt from you
I saw you crack from the pressure
And I too began to crack
You taught me how to care for others
You were my first patient
But you never taught me how to care for myself

You were weak and now I am too
A prisoner to your own demons
Unable to protect yourself or me
I thank you now
For teaching me the worst of the world
And allowing me to struggle to find the light