don't tell me I'm beautiful
until you've seen my scars
which carve my legs
like thin white veins
don't tell me I'm sweet
until I've shut you out of my heart
because I swore to myself
that you are just like the rest
don't tell me I'm perfect
until you've seen me break down
I'll show you all the darkness
consuming my mind
but if you
have seen my scars
bitterness
and breakdowns
then perhaps I'll believe you
- Amanda Katherine Ricketson