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They all gave advice, then walked away some with a smile, others with pity in…

They all gave advice, then walked away
some with a smile,
others with pity in their eyes.
Each one left,
as if leaving me behind meant rising above me.

But what did I really ask for?
Not a hand to hold,
not a shoulder to lean on.
Still, they look at me
like I’m begging for something I never wanted.

Yes, I’m unsettled,
but I’m not broken by sorrow.
Yes, I feel empty sometimes,
but I’m not starving for joy.

There are flaws in me
but I love myself anyway.
Fully.
Without apology.