Their words plunge like daggers Focused, derisive laughter A target outnumbered Cornered and torn asunder Cast out and rejected Fragile and unprotected A misfit pariah Ridiculed, undesired A font of strength is flowing like blood from open veins A cache of courage to brace against the blinding pain Each one of us fights battles no one else can see Some days just waking up is an act of bravery Self-image distorted Reality contorted Dysmorphic perception Self-doubt and introspection Devouring and purging Toxic cycle emerging The shame hold, the tears flow, Unanswered prayers for control Addiction, dependence A slave in every sense A pattern repeating Pointless and self-defeating Clock ticking, time squandered Promises left unhonored Will failing, hope dying Obstacles multiplying