Cryptic confessions

By assumption – self harm is cutting,
a glimmer of a blade,
a scar for reminding.
Allow me the chance to shed understanding.

“I’m fine” becomes habit -
A coded catchphrase.
If I’m good you’ll believe it
Accept it, and walk away.

I’ll smile when I know you’re looking,
join in when you’re all laughing,
add my own jokes -
but inside I’m dying.

I don’t want to die,
or cut myself;
but what I can’t do
is call for help.

I’m emotionally damaged
stunted, if you will.
I am my own teacher -
Lesson? Emotions we must kill.

This is my story -
A common line, I know.
But what can I say?
I’m a living, breathing, walking, talking... teenage cliché.

[Stanza three inspired by ' Secrets laces with smiles' by 'Chemical rose']