I fear that the cycle continues

That poverty runs behind me for most of the race

But always ends up the winner

I fear that the cycle continues

Consistency was never in our vocabulary

But neither was “give up”

I fear that the cycle continues

Of not having enough

But enough was family in disguise

I fear that the cycle continues

Of locking myself up in tears

And getting on my knees asking Him, why us?

I fear that the cycle continues

Of living life as though I am not scared

I crawl back to hide in the shadows. I am scared.

I fear that the cycle continues

Blindfolded and inching towards fulfillment

Reality strips me of my last whimsical breath—my pockets are empty

I fear that the cycle continues

Been a puppet on strings

And served on a platter

 

I feared that the cycle would continue

And it just might

But I have had eighteen years and nine months of air

And I am still here

Filtering the air

No money, but rich with love

No stability, but my family holds me up

Not much of anything I want, but plenty of what I need

Fear held the grip, not because she was stronger

But because I let her

I pity her no more

I will not be conquered

Most odds are against me

I will not be conquered

 

Bon appétit.