The past is a nightmare from which I cannot wake,

Not knowing till the end how much it will take.

To remember each detail for fear of the last,

Partaking in each abhorred task.

Taking my soul bit by bit, rather than the whole,

Envisioning memories powerful enough to capture my soul.

Watching my steps on my way to hell,

Listening to find the final moment I fell.

I cannot make the corrosion in my mind disappear,

So I spend my nights in cold and complacent fear.

Horror stories unfold daily and again,

Watching helpless, I allow evil to win.

Giving up freedoms and bliss I need,

To watch again what I hate to see.

Accepting my part in the dance that ensued,

Accepting my demons both old and new.

Living my moments and losing myself

Living the hand I was so eagerly dealt.

Trying my best to forget the past.

Embracing those things that cannot last.

Today I am that which I hope to be,

Today I am someone worthy of thee.

Jennifer C.