(un)learning

i tell myself i’m enough

as i stare in the mirror

and my reflection says

“but what about that time?”

i tell myself i deserve good things

as i think about my future

and my memory whispers

“but are you sure?”

i convince myself i’m lovable

when i talk to my mother

as the voice in my head says

“but then why don’t they stay?”

i try to believe i am worthy

as i lay in their bedroom

and my inner child cries

“but why don’t they mean

the words they say?”