Disappointment

Disappointment washes over me
Both inside and out
Destroying me, reducing me to nothing

I fight back tears
Blinking fiercely in defense

A voice follows me around
Torturing me with cruel words

I can't escape it
Though I want to fight it

Fear pummels me,
Bringing me to my knees
Leaving me defenseless

I crumble from inside out
Self-esteem gone, never there

How can I survive?
I hang my head
Shame overpowering my will

I am helpless
Nothing to protect me from my mind
I wallow in self-pity, wondering how I'll recover

I square my shoulders
Bringing my head up
Determined to succeed this time