From Pain to Purpose

I'm still afraid to look too pretty,

To tempt beyond control.

Though the guilt isn't mine to carry,

It weighs much on my soul.

—

Memories whisper lies in my ears,

Playing tricks on my mind.

Ambushed by feelings of hopelessness,

Peace can seem hard to find.

—

But, deep in the corners of my heart,

A still, small voice resides;

Bidding me, "Rise up, you're not alone!

You've no more need to hide."

—

My story, told, can make a difference

In someone else's world;

My words, a ransom for their freedom

About to be unfurled.

—

Though I still struggle, some, on most days,

Love gives purpose to life:

To listen with love and compassion,

To speak truth, and ease strife.