Still I stood

Did you bleed through nights that left no trace, with no one near to see it? Did you hold your ground when they left no space, and swear you never leave? Did you break in half and bind it tight, so no one saw the seam? Did you carry men through fire and fight, then wake alone and scream? They talk of strength like it’s clean and neat, Like it’s medals on a chest. But strength is cracked hands, and bloodied feet, and a heart that’s had no rest. Did you love too deep? Did you lose too much? Did silence bruise your name? Were you mocked for being “just too much” by those who knew no flame? They’ll never know what it took to breathe. When life took all it could. They won’t ask where I’ve been. But still, I stood.