I have seen myself in the mirror,
I have held myself as I cried,
I tore through the pain and carried on,
Even when the ones I loved died.

I have rallied through years of abuse,
Hate came from a father, much less strangers,
Yet I’ve never given up on love and hope,
Though each presents its own dangers.

I have repaired my heart several times,
And still choose to let new love hold it,
I have lost my pride to buy back hope,
After mostly all my lovers have sold it.

So I may have a fear of crumbling again,
When all my efforts in you may yet fail;
But I certainly know the strength in me,
Shall, come what may, make me prevail.