In the quiet corners of my restless mind, Fears whispered softly, leaving hope behind. Each doubt a shadow, stretching long and wide, Anxiety's grip, a crashing wave. I sought to be perfect, to meet every mark, But the harder I tried, the deeper I fell. In moments of laughter, I’d silently frown, Chasing an image, as love slipped away. Your eyes held a promise, a future so bright, Yet I built up walls, kept you out of sight. Busy with battles, I lost track of time, Caught in the struggle, leaving love behind. You reached for my hand, but I couldn’t be free, Scared of your judgment, too blind to see. I longed to be open, to share all my fears, But my heart wore a mask, hidden behind my tears. With every “What if?” that danced through my head, I crafted a prison where love could not tread. You spoke of forever, of dreams yet to weave, But my doubts whispered softly, “You won't believe it.” As I stood at the edge, in a silence so loud, I chose to retreat from the warmth of the crowd. I pushed you away, while my heart turned to stone, In chasing perfection, I watched you fade away Now I sit with the echoes of all that we shared, A heart once so vibrant is now heavy and scared. I learned too late that perfection is a thief, It stole our connection and shattered our belief. Yet in this reflection, I see clearer skies, The courage in my struggle, the light that will rise. For though I lost you to shadows of doubt, I’m learning to love myself, to stand strong and shout.