Turning eighteen and running away is how I "glowed up" and that's sad to say.

Trying to act grown, I moved four hours away. To be hurt by a man and that was not okay.

I graduated high school and my anxiety held me back from college, but little did I know, I could have really used some knowledge.

There I was, a present day slave. I'm actually surprised I'm not in a grave.

Two months later, I have had enough abuse so I jumped out a car and ended up with a bruise.

I eventually got back home and got a job. I was no longer broken and scared to sob.

My gram passed away a year after and it broke my heart. She taught me how to be brave and how to be smart.

I started college a year and a half later and I am proud, because three years ago, I never would have been allowed.

I thought I was grown, I thought that was my only way out, but being educated and responsible helped me without a doubt.