I am

I was the protector.

The one who guarded my family

From the monsters outside.

I’d take up my shield and hide them Away from the world outside

Begging to break them.

I was a warrior.

The one who fought for friends

When they couldn’t fight

For themselves.

I’d sharpen my sword and go to war

Against those who strived

To strike me down.

I was a victim.

The one who was left defenseless

By my own who ran to hide

From the men with power.

I’d lose my head and fade out to black

Although the pain was heavy

And the bruises many.

I was a doll.

The one who was left so numb

Because of my past

That I stopped fighting.

I’d lay down and accept my fate

As the girl who’d be taken 

And left for dead.

I was a soldier.

The one who came home 

From the battle broken

And scarred.

I’d sit in the dark and hide

Alone and terrified of those

Who could hurt me.

I am a survivor.

The one who rose up

And took her life

Into her own hands.

I searched for help 

And started anew

With a fire in my soul and a life to live.