TW: Name calling

They call me a jerk, a moron, a fool,

when all I did was follow my rule.

Defending myself, standing my ground,

yet their words cut deep, sharp and profound.

"You're so mean," they say, when I push back,

but all I see is what they lack—

understanding, or maybe care,

of why I feel it's just, it's fair.

I speak my truth, but they don't hear,

their voices rise, their anger clear.

I'm left wondering what I did wrong,

why my defense turns into a song

of insults thrown, like arrows sharp,

leaving marks inside my heart.

They tell me I'm wrong, I'm always at fault,

when I just wanted to halt

the blame that always falls my way,

no matter what I choose to say.

I'm left alone, with names that sting,

wondering why I couldn't bring

myself to be what they expect,

instead, I stand, hurt, and reflect.