Don't worry, it's a claw mark.

Don't worry, the knife slipped.

Don't worry, I won't bleed out.

Don't worry.

 

It was years ago now.

The beginning of waking up.

Depression wasn't on my radar.

But it was all she could see.

 

Beginning of seventh grade was the first time.

Redirecting pain to the wrists

Feeling a warm glide for release.

She told me first.

 

My cat scratched her, I said.

No, I can work her through it, I said.

She'll get over it, I said.

Till one day it was too late.

 

Excuses don't fix anything.

They build up inside to overflow.

One slice brings another, then another, then another.

You know they're not fine, don't let them go.

 

Worry.