I hear the voices
Of all the people around me.
But their lips are not moving.
Each has a specific demand,
All asking something of me.
I must adhere to these requests
Or I will fail them.
Perhaps not in their eyes,
But in mine.
I sweat, I bleed, I sacrifice
To accomplish these goals
They silently set for me.
I have completed the checklist,
Everyone will be satisfied,
Except for myself.
For I have missed out
On so many opportunities
Just to please those around me.
When the person I should have been concerned with
Is the one writing this.
If only I had the strength
To stand up to them
And to not be afraid
To disappoint them.
I would be so much happier now.
But I was willing to trade
The enjoyment of one
For the love and appreciation
Of so many around me.

                                B.A.D.