Dear School,

I don’t remember what it’s like to be refreshed.

To wake up in the morning with a smile on my face

And a can-do attitude.

 

I don’t remember the feeling of being well-rested.

Energy coursing through my body as I wake

From the early light streaming through my windows.

 

I don’t remember how it feels going to bed early.

To get all of my homework done right away

And go to bed out of boredom.

 

I don’t remember how to wake up without an alarm clock.

The harsh tones jarring me from my sleep

And forcing me into the world of the awake.

 

I remember what it’s like to be tired all the time.

To walk through the halls with my muscles screaming

And my eyes drooping.

 

I remember how to go through the day feeling like another person.

I’m not my outgoing, talkative self:

I’m tired and crabby.

 

I remember what it’s like to wake up during class

With everyone staring at you

And the teacher giving disappointed looks.

 

I remember what it’s like to sleep in

And yet still be so tired

As if I’d never slept.

 

I remember the distractions that haunt my daydreams:

Netflix clawing at me

And rest’s calls slowly fading away.

 

I remember what it’s like to want sleep so bad

And yet toss and turn all night

Trying every trick possible.

 

Mostly, I remember the feeling I get

When I wake up day after day

Feeling drained and out of tune.

How I struggle through the days

And yearn for rest at night.