I Could've Been

I could’ve been different. 

I could’ve chosen acting over music,

Physics over medicine,

Aggression over understanding. 

I could’ve been, I could’ve been.

But I am me.

I could’ve taken easy classes. 

Accepted B’s. 

I could have disrespected my teachers,

My parents, and my friends. 

I could’ve become someone else.

But I am me.

I could’ve given into the pain. 

I could’ve listened to my doubt.

To the voice that said ‘why bother?’ 

I could’ve stayed down. 

Refused to pick up my pieces. 

But I am still me.

I could’ve lost my friends. 

I could’ve never written. 

Never called.

I could’ve been corrupted by despair and loneliness.

I could’ve spurned the offered hand.

But I am me.

I could’ve lost my home. 

My friends. 

My life. 

To addictions and despair. 

I could’ve been discouraged. 

I could’ve been defeated. 

I could’ve been so much less than I am.

But I am me.