You Were Strong

To the ones who did not survive it:

That it did not make you stronger,

Does not make you weaker.

.

Whether quick to the kill

Or a slow fitful burn,

To not survive abuse happens all the time.

.

Do not let them tell you

That living is easier than dying

When the matter of your life was taken.

.

Because for some of us,

Taking our final breath

Means we can finally breathe.

.

Listen: if you are here still,

Keep trying, keep going

Keep learning to be alive.

.

But to those tired souls listening from beyond:

That it did not give you strength

Never made you weak.

.

Listen: you are strong still,

Even in your long sleep.

I see you. I hear you.

May you always rest in peace.