[First Poem Written on the Life Writing Course]
NOBODY
I am Nobody because i do not have a voice
I’m expected to do whatever, without given a choice
Nobody, because I’ve always been the lesser one
If anything goes wrong, it’s cos of something I’ve done
Nobody, because I’m disrespected by all
Invisible, despite being there for anyone when they call
Nobody whenever I’m belittled, sworn or shouted at
Everyone takes me for granted and treats me like a doormat
Nobody, because nothing i do is appreciated or seen
Even though i spend hours ensuring the house is clean
Nobody when outsiders get to have the final say
Especially when I’m victimized, they look or walk away
I am Nobody when being ostracized by those i love dearly
The animosity radiated towards me is felt by me clearly
Nobody because when finally i stand up for what’s right
Their response still has me crying, deep into the night
Nobody because i try so hard just to make them care
But i guess it doesn’t matter, they just pretend I’m not there
I am Nobody because everything i do or say is wrong
Yeah! I must be a Nobody for this to go on for so long
But hey! this Nobody has finally reached the end of her rope
Because this Nobody is tired, and has given up all hope
Therefore, after spending a lifetime as a NOBODY to some
The day when I’ll finally be SOMEONE will come
No matter if what they reminisce about me is all lies
This Nobody will be acknowledged on the day she dies.
[Last Poem Written on the Life Writing Course]
THANK YOU
Watching the wave, as it crashes gently onto the shore
It’s something i never really noticed before
I am so thankful and grateful, that i can finally see
The beauty in everything, that is surrounding me
How is it possible, i never saw any of this before
It seems as if i walked through a magical door
For the past few days i have been in a place
Where only warmth and peace invaded my space
Sitting amongst people who i never met before
A rich diversity of personalities and yet so much more
On my very first day, i was so timid and weak
Scared half to death, lest they ask me to speak
But as the days passed, my confidence has grown
And it’s all due to the compassion this amazing group has shown
Each one of us has a reason for being here
Although mine at first, wasn’t very clear
I have learnt so much, but most important… I had fun
I am not looking forward to the day we are done
So thank you for this opportunity, and each and everyone
For making this week so special, one of the best … bar none!
©Leonora Lewis
Dedicated to the Life Righting Collective
July 2018