Because I loved you

I ignored all the red flags

I let you hide me

I forgave your infidelity 

I did not care when you did not care about me

I was empty trying to fill you because only you mattered

I lowered my expectations and self worth

and I acted as if it was okay when you left me without an explanation 

but now I love him

and because I love him

I wear my seatbelt and do my homework

I don’t need a hand to hold but he’s there to offer it

I tell him everything and talk to him with excitement 

I smile everywhere I go and spread that by helping others 

I am at peace with the face that looks back at me in the mirror

because I love him 

I love myself

which is something I was never able to do

because I was too busy 

loving you