Don’t hurry to grow up, they said.
You’ll understand when you’re older, they said.
We only hurt you because we love you, they said.
Love yourself the way you are, they said.
As resolute as a wisp of smoke
Spiraling upward into the abysmal depths of space
From the candle you lit in memory of all that you were
It doesn't have to be this way, they said.
We understand how you feel, they said.
I've been trying all your life, they said.
As desperate as the waves pulling people out to sea
Lost in the blue, floating away but you’re not free.
Sinking, but not anchored.
Loving, but never loved.