NOCKMV / F

Some days, being alive takes everything I have.

Breathing is not automatic. Existing is not effortless. Even minding my own business can feel like a full-time job when I am already trying to slow my thoughts down, catch my breath and make sure my heart is still beating.

So when I say I am protecting my vibe, I am not talking about being happy all the time.

I am protecting whatever is keeping me here.

The small amount of peace I managed to find. The little strength I have left. The brief moment where my mind is not trying to tear itself apart.

It may not look like much to anyone else, but it cost me everything to get here.

I do not have the energy to carry your expectations, your opinions, or whatever damage you decided to bring into my space. I am already occupied with the difficult business of remaining a person.

So please, leave me alone.

I am trying to breathe.

And no one gets to take that away from me.