I have been stolen
Robbed of my dignity, I no longer flinch
When the doctors examine every inch of me
I have been stolen
Not quite the “sick girl” I used to be
It’s getting worse but it’s been so long, no one wants to see
Unless of course, I am their inspiration for the day
I have been stolen
But they applaud me because I keep going
Strong and brave, these are not compliments
I have quite literally no choice
I have been stolen
Of my right to grieve the loss of my health
The loss of my dignity
The loss of my identity
“You make your illness your identity”
But when I smile and pretend that my body is not on fire
Or that it’s no big deal when my skin turns purple
And I forget my own name
I am praised for the person “I am”
Strong and brave
I have been stolen
Robbed of my dignity, I no longer flinch
When people roll their eyes in disbelief
I have been stolen
My right to exist without my existence
Being an object for critique
“She shouldn’t let it get to her.” over and over until I learn how to change the narrative to
“She is so strong. I don’t know how she does it.”
As if there is glory in suffering
As if diminishing or praising it will protect you
I have been stolen
By diseases that do not discriminate
I have been stolen
And though I wish this upon no one
I wish for just a moment
You too could be stolen
Serendipity Minds 