damaged goods

I’ve had many boys in my ring but no man in my corner
I’ve set people at ease but I’ve never been left calmer
I’ve had palms across my face but no hands to embrace
I’ve sprinted towards allegiance but left alone at the race
I’ve had words pour poison but no distilled voice of worth
I’ve held people in the clouds but never levitated off the earth
I’ve had promises wrapped with ribbon but no offering to obtain
I’ve been let down but never led up to sustain
I’ve been merciful but left with out vindication
I’ve desired love but been bestowed under condition
I’ve given chances but I’ve never been risked
I’ve been forgotten but I’ve never been missed
I’ve felt the heat of the sun but no warmth on my skin
I loved people for who they ought to be not for who they are within
I’ve been loyal to storms that don’t end in my kiss
I’ve plunged all-in only to be submerged in an abyss
I’ve fallen for facades that bear no home
I’ve had people beside me but I’ve always felt alone
I’ve been filled with vacancies that keep me hollow
I’ve stood behind a leader but with no one to follow
I’ve relied on others who won’t keep me fulfilled
I’ve been knocked down yet I always rebuild
I prioritized strangers leaving myself on the shelf
I’ve been a lot for others but never enough for myself

-kristi lane