Mental Help | Aurora | Print Friendly

The predator is lurking,
In the distance, day and night
Its presence is always known
Its never out of sight

To the world you are yourself
You appear to never change
But if only they could see inside
Do you think they’d see the pain?

They tell you things to help you
And they tell you you’ll be fine
But what they fail to see themselves
Is a victim of the mind

The eyes may be blinded
By the facial façade displayed
And you may try to be normal
Yet slowly, fading, away

The body stands tall on the outside
But inside you’re cut up
Trying to change to fit right in
Yet you’re never good enough

They tell you things to help you
And they tell you you’ll be fine
But what they fail to see themselves
Is a victim of the mind

The momentary streams of water
Caressing down your cheeks
As you see yourself in the mirror
Thinking why can’t I be me

Chained up, pushed down
Beaten time and time again
Outside you try your hardest
To shield the internal pain

For you see the predator is always there
Despite the unsuccessful tries
Its lurking, watching every move
Comfortably inside your mind

They tell you things to help you
And they tell you you’ll be fine
But what they fail to see themselves
Is a victim of the mind

Poet's note: I wrote this a few years ago to myself and for myself I have battled with my body image for over 10 years and in that way, this poem was a subconscious cry for help. After writing this poem I knew I needed to "set myself free" of both the physical and mental inflictions I had put on myself. I am still struggling but I am making progress slowly every day. This is a reminder to me to push on. This may also remind readers that no matter how a person expresses themselves on the outside, things may always be different for them. The worst judge I've ever seen is always you on yourself.