Hard Fought Victory Poem by Cody Bates

This battle is like no other,
a symptom, a disorder inherited from my mother
It's an uphill war,
in a hallway without a door

Theres no avoidance, it's only a hassle;
however this is no hopeless struggle.
What began as an inclination to be silent
soon grew to a fear of dissent

I struggled again and again,
what seemed, to me, in vain.
I felt, and feel, as though everyone is against me,
as though if I say anything, no one will agree.

It was then I took my stand,
tired of silence, time i took command,
I marched up the hill, strong and resolute,
my resolve something nothing will pollute.

Slowly but surely i gain ground,
on top of the hill i am crowned.
But yet it does remain,
in the corner of my brain.

Everyday I struggle with it,
baring through it with grit.
It still remains a threat,
it has had its effect.

I remain silent, wary, forever vigilant,
towards this disease I am defiant.
I defeat it in small skirmishes,
showing it that it bows to my wishes.

Now you know my struggle, my fight;
hopefully you will listen to my plight.
Nothing can control you,
If you feel without hope, without a clue,

Tell yourself 'I am strong, I am true.'
No disorder tells me what to do.
I have told my story, and here I stand;
If you need help, just take my hand.