Sixteen years, eight months, & two-hundred twenty days.

Though it feels like time continues to fade away,

what you have taught me throughout my life always stay.

I need to fight for myself, even if it feels like there's no way out.

Yes, there will be times when all I can think of is self-doubt.

However, you will be there to lead me on the right route.

I must not settle for less.

With all my strength, I have to overlook those who destroy & oppress.

If I follow these steps, I will find the reward of success.

I can't let our past of mental abuse hold me back.

He tried to break us down, but cognitive weakness what we now lack.

Therefore, never let a man transform your light into something dark & black.

I possess immeasurable beauty, intelligence, & worth.

These traits cannot be taken away, for I have had them since birth.

The more I continue to believe in myself, the bigger an impact I will have on this earth.

My warrior, you have been through these battles before.

With your determination & God-given power, each time, you came out the conqueror.

Mom, thank you for being my saving grace, my immovable rock, & my mentor.