“How I Cope”
By Ashley O’Hare
My heart is beating in my throat.
I’m running in circles
because that is the only way I can cope.
I’m turning up the volume on my phone.
I have to drown out the sorrow
before I’m reminded that I am alone.
But I keep hope in my back pocket
so when the doubt floods in,
I can fight it.
I am not weak.
I am not defenseless.
For myself, I can speak.
I will raise my voice
until my throat is numb
to all the girls and boys
who broke me all at once.
I am not scared-
there is something in my eye
I would never dare
to tell you why.
ashleyohare 