i never knew i had issues
or problems galore;
like low self esteem
and completely insecure.

i was quiet and shy
and afraid of my word;
now i am confident
and want to be heard.

i used my sarcasm
as a means of control;
not realizing the damage
i could do to a soul.

i had to know details
i could never get enough;
now i will let people
deal with their own stuff.

the way that i saw myself
was ugly and fat;
but now on the contrary
it's nothing like that.

i thought people didn't like me
and talked behind my back
now i know it was my imagination
and the confidence i lacked.

i was very erratic
and tried to do it "all" alone;
now I'll ask for help
even if I make people moan.

i was easily angered
as my temper was short;
never realizing a problem
until the threat of court.

i couldn't carry a conversation
only my opinion interject;
now i can't wait
to use my new dialect.

i never explained to my kids
it was always yes or no;
now i can clarify
and help "their" esteem grow.

i was a people pleaser
never wanting a fight;
now i realize
that wasn't right.

people need to express
their anger and emotions;
it's normal and expected
and shouldn't cause commotions.

i was very emotional
and so easy to cry;
now i will just deal
until the feeling passes by.

i rejected closeness
and the contact of touch;
now i realize
i like it very much.

i avoided things like;
the beach, driving and flying.
now i plan on doing them
without the thought of dying!

I'm a very special person
this is now something I know;
and in everything I do
I hope it will show!