Long ago, I fought a battle and won.

My life – my reward.

My heart – nearly empty and undone.

 

Not all rewards are full of wealth.

Some are beautiful but with thorns.

And, my smiling face is false with stealth.

 

My reward is falling to the ground,

But I would never give it back.

Peace is gone and the tears threaten to drown.

 

Dreams still lay shattered.

I try to reclaim myself before I fought.

My mind and heart will always be battered.

 

So, I ask, “Why do you try?”

And, I answer, “Because I must.”

Even if it feels like all I want to do is cry.

 

Perhaps, one day, beauty with no thorn shall be mine.

But, for now, I simply endure.

Even if pain tries to break me again, I will remain alive.