I kept silent because I didn’t want to hurt you.
I kept silent because I didn’t want to embarrass you.
I kept silent because I didn’t want to offend you.
I kept silent because I didn’t want to stand in my power.
I kept silent because I didn’t think I could handle speaking my truth.
I kept silent because I didn’t know how to put it in words.
I kept silent because I was afraid of what you’d say.
I kept silent because I didn’t know what would happen after I spoke.
I kept silent and didn’t realize I was slowly suffocating myself.
I spoke up and lost everything.
I spoke up and found there were no comforts to retreat to, I am uncharted territory.
I was naked, exposed, vulnerable.
You liked me better when I was silent. I hated myself more with each day.

Do I choose you or me?
Eventually, something has to give; My soul, or your comfort.
I chose me.

I became free the day I lost everything but my voice.