I’m here

I’m present

I’m here

Checked out but not away

My mind is blank

But my body’s present

Thinking or not, I’m here

Standing beside those above me

Lacking their wit and pride

Discouraged by most

Influenced by many

I’m here and I’m alive

Not perfect

But not a mess

Absolutely, certainly stressed

Troubled by this

Worried by that

Defying the odds, I’m here

“You have it easy”

“It’s all good”

Just take five steps in my shoes

You’ll see

Torn apart then stitched together

Then sometimes feeling like I could love forever

I’m here

I’m present

I’m here