I used to measure every word I’d say, Through other people’s eyes, their ways. Every look felt like a test, Trying too hard just to be “the best”. I bent my truth to fit their frame, Called it love, called it playing safe. But my silence started feeling loud, Like losing myself in the crowd. I don’t need it, the nods, the signs, I don’t need their peace of mind. I don’t need permission to be me, To think out loud, to disagree. I trust my voice, I trust my mind, I’m done asking if I’m right. I say it clear, I say it strong: I don’t need it to move on. I wore their labels like a skin, Let their doubts sink deep within. But I’m not here to be understood, I’m here to live the way I should. If they don’t clap when I begin, I’ll still stand up, I’ll still believe. I don’t need the world to choose, I already know my truth. I don’t need it, the praise, the noise, I don’t need to mute my voice. I walk my line, I take my space, No more shrinking, no more wait. I’m enough even when I’m alone, This life is mine, this path I own.
