Is this the sacrifice I must make,
R.D. Jess
To sacrifice myself for their sake?
Can I be selfish just once?
That my sake not be renounced?
But no, a hero I must be,
And treat myself unjustly.
To lay myself low like he.
While it chips away my psyche.
Why must I do what’s right?
Why can’t I leave the light?
The story never ends.
A friend’s hand never extends.
It is my job to be their friend.
The one who always mends.
The one who is silenced by compromise.
And still not be seen as wise.
Please don’t make me do this.
I know it is just the way it is,
But I’m tired of feeling alone.
And wearing the bigger pant’s in the home.
Only to be called sensitive.
The word being used as a derogative.
To sacrifice, feels like a trap.
My soul wants to call this a wrap.
Would it be too much to ask for a miracle?
That I don’t have to sacrifice it all.
Just once I want to be shown mercy
Like I felt back in Jersey.
But, I know that will never happen.
It’s a myth like a dragon.
For mercy to see compassion,
And not be greeted by an assassin.
Just once I pray,
To not become prey;
To those I gave my all,
So they could stand tall.
JUST ONCE
Renewed Dream 