Inside Voice

I've allowed the monsters in my memories and dreams to gut me on the inside of these ripping seams.

I can feel their poison racing through my veins as their claws scrape my temples in another fit of rage.

They've shredded my confidence, my hope, and faith into repulsive and unyielding shades of grey.

I can hear their jaded whispers and ruthless taunts echoing in my dark and restless thoughts.

"Stop! Don't listen! Don't allow yourself to feel! You have to know that none of it is real!"

Their screeches can sometimes get so loud that even under water they cannot be drowned out.

Moments of peace and tranquility are found in your arms, only near you and by you are they completely disarmed.

Only when you're next to me or we are dancing under the stars will the monsters finally quiet and I can forget all my scars.