My screams are knocking from inside.
They want to let the shame, fear, and guilt
out into the real.

I trained them
to stay quiet, strong and
to never disturb –
unless they were ready
to face those who
wouldn’t understand.

Once they step out,
they won’t be seen the way I see them.
And I…
I won’t be treated the way I used to be.

Their soundless screams
curl into the corners of my throat,
clawing for a way out.

I’ve tried.
Many times, I’ve tried to free them –
but they’re tied inward,
knotted around
the versions of me.