compare my bones to flower petals and stardust and i'll

show you the iron coiled around my 

bones.

compare my skin to milk in old-fashioned cartons, 

white lights and

negative space,

and i'll show you my heart line slicing

through my palm,

jagged lines and

empty places. 

compare the words i speak to 

dulcet syllables whispered over pillowcases,

sweat soaked and trembling,

paper thin promises coated in

honey,

and i will show you 

hot ink spilled over blank canvases.

i will show you bitter coffee,

pennies always showing heads,

sweet smiles coated bloodred. 

doubt me,

i will show you

strength.