Seeking Solace

As a child, fights I would see,

Ignoring the noise, pretending it's glee.

Inside, my feelings stayed out of sight,

Expressing fears never felt right.

Words were unclear, thoughts couldn't flow,

Was it easy to ask for help? I didn't know.

Fear and letdowns when I reached out,

Stopped asking, carried my doubts.

Keeping it all in became too tough,

Trusting someone, it felt rough.

They exposed my fears, pointed flaws,

Trembling voice met with their pause.

They said I was okay, despite the tears,

"Stop crying, do better," they'd sneer.

Vulnerable, I'd rather not be,

Hiding behind attitude, staying free.