In the darkness of doubt and despair,
I carried the weight of judgment unfair.
Bipolar, depression, schizophrenia’s shadow,
Teachers’ words piercing like a sharp arrow.

“You’ll never be anything, just a lost cause.”
Echoes of doubt, reinforcing flaws.
But deep within, a flame flickered bright,
A spirit unbroken, ready for the fight.

Through the storms of mental strife,
I embraced the challenges of life.
Rising above the cruel words spoken,
I refused to let my spirit be broken.

Amidst the chaos, I found my way,
Striving for a brighter day.
First in my family to reach that height,
A beacon of hope, shining so bright.

I walked the path less traveled by,
Defying odds reaching for the sky.
People’s eyes now filled with surprise,
Seeing the truth behind their lies.

I confess the pain that once held me down,
The weight of expectations, a heavy crown.
But in spite of it all, I stand tall and strong,
A testament to resilience all along.

So here I am, a survivor, a warrior true,
Proving wrong every naysayer’s view.
I am not defined by my past’s dark spree,
I am here, I am free, I am me.