i hope my words are strange and wondrous,

like kisses that quiet all things superfluous,

so that we can all stop and

listen

"you're a strong girl"

are a brand,

imprinted on my lips

to seal them shut.

the truth is,

i am not strong at all

and if only you could hear my heart

crying.

if only.

but no.

i must be.

there is no other choice.

'what did you do today?' he said.

'well... i went home. and sat facing the wall to cry.'