Release the Exes

Trauma buried alive survives
Dig up the grave and kill it for good
It doesn't matter how long the process takes
Just do what you never thought you could
I have exhibits that get revisits
That first were "run and dismiss it"
Displays of broken where there was no fix
Threads from blankets of shame that I hid
Some would think it might cause me to regress
And that if I view them I'd get depressed
When really it shines light on my progress
To see where I'm no longer scared to reflect
So when bullshit would try to resurface
Threatening to make me feel worthless
I realized facing it had purpose
And figured out how to work this
Now I greet artworks of pain and willingly return
I sit with them a while, then light a match and emotions burn
Strength was not handed to me, had to earn it
What tries to kill you helps you learn this

So exes might be exes, but deep impressions need expression
Damage that they cause is not made for suppression
That's what prevents ability to form deep connection
Reflection allows us to share wisdom of our lessons
Vulnerability reminds us were fragile and breakable
But it also reminds us we're strong and love-capable
No risk no reward, but do risks ever feel takable?
We won't know and can't grow if we just stay unshakable
So don't be ashamed to talk about your ex
The one who left you like trash for the next
The one who hurt you in ways you're afraid to say
Because you feel like if you do, you'll stop being okay
The one who made you feel like you're not good enough
The one who stopped loving you, quietly and just because
The one who fucked you up and abused your trust
The invisible scars that never quite turned to dust
Whether art, friend or outlet, Please let yourself discuss them
So you can let go and stop feeling disgusted
Free yourself from these chains, bust out
So you can reclaim your whole self
Because love isn't something you can just go and retrieve
When damage shapes your ability to perceive
Give yourself love so you can relearn how to receive
Fear is the enemy of love, and therein lies the keys