I wish I could say
The bloodstains on my finger
Have nothing to do with
the way I perform
as an athlete
as a student
as a friend
as a daughter
as a sister,
but if I were to be completely
and totally honest,
I would say that the bruises on my stomach
have everything to do with
the way I carry myself
the way I speak to you
the things I eat
the way I act
around anyone, and everyone.

I wish that I could say
The blood glucose meter on my desk
Has nothing to do with
what I carry on my shoulders
around school
around town
around my friends
around the house
and by myself,
but if I were to be completely
and utterly honest,
I would say that the container marked
biohazard
had everything to do with
my life
my family
my friends
my attitude
towards anything and everything.
Even if you ask me,
and I deny it.
Just know it's true. I just don't want to show you.