The Memoir Of Ms. Butterfly

I should feel relieved—
They say healing is freedom,
But part of me is still caged
by the ghosts of who they said I should be.

I was a reflection in their eyes,
a version of myself sculpted by whispers,
until I could no longer see
The outline of my existence.

I have given away too much,
let hands shape me,
let voices mold me,
let love and loss
Decide who I am.

But that’s not my story.

My story is simple.

I am hurt.
I am gathering.
I am reclaiming
Every piece they tried to take.

And I pray—
That never again
Will I lose another piece
of me.

Ms. Butterfly Genesis