Better This Way

I look like someone to everyone.
I'm never just me.
They broke my bones and a good portion of my spirit then...
I just wouldn't bend.
Sometimes I wish I had.

I've got to get away from here.
This is no place for me.
I'm not as strong as I used to be,
All this time I can barely breathe.

Is this my punishment to bear?
Hurting, crying, nothing to share?

I can do this, I know I can.
Please, oh please don't let it be so bad.

Why can't it all just fade away?
Can't you see it's better this way?

Pull the blankets to my chin,
Why is it that I can't win?

The dark is coming to take me away...
Please understand, it's better this way.

A.J. Downey
11-26-2000