Never enough

In the echoing halls of my mind,
I searched for love I couldn't find,
A constant yearning, undefined,
Never enough to ease the bind.

I'd chase your praise with all my might,
But it slipped through the cracks of night,
Like a fleeting star's fading light,
Leaving my heart in endless plight.

I painted dreams with colors bold,
In hopes your approval I'd hold,
Yet your expectations, I was told,
Were impossible, my spirit sold.

I longed to be your pride and joy,
Your little girl, your golden boy,
But my efforts seemed to destroy,
The chance to ever truly enjoy.

In your eyes, I'd never attain,
The love I sought, the peace from pain,
Yet in my heart, a strength would gain,
To break the cycle, to break the chain.

I've learned to find my own self-worth,
To walk my path, to claim my berth,
To nurture the love that gives birth,
To a soul that's cherished, for its own mirth.

For though I yearned to fill your cup,
I've discovered, at last, to sup,
From the wellspring deep, I've grown up,
In the knowledge that I am enough.