*This poem was featured in this year's version of my school's literary magazine. I'm very blessed to have one of my works once again featured in a school publication.* 

Looking down on yourself; 

seeing some flaws 

etched onto your skin. 

Scars remind you 

of your struggles. 

Insecurities written 

on your forehead. 

That's what you have 

to live with everyday, 

with no eraser 

to remove your dirt. 

Going to school 

the next day; 

only to have 

a punching bag 

smack you in the face. 

Once again, you are hit 

with another battle, 

and another scar to add. 

It seems to never end; 

a new punching bag 

hits you every time. 

Don't be ashamed, 

as battles make you 

who you are. 

Without your battles 

there wouldn't be you; 

and without you 

this would wouldn't be the same. 

Whatever you may be 

going through right now, 

you need to know 

that you are a fighter. 

It's gonna be okay.