Peace Is Mine Poem by Vanessa Dizon Alvarez

Enough is enough—I've found my voice,
No longer bound by someone's choice.
I won't be quiet, won't pretend,
I'll stand my ground, I won't bend.

They'll talk, they'll twist, they'll try to shame,
But I won't play their hollow game.
I won't explain, I won't defend—
Their judgment isn't mine to mend.

I'll let them walk, I'll let them speak,
But I won't shrink, I won't grow weak.
Their view of me is not my truth,
I've earned my strength, I've shed my youth.

So let me rise, let me be free,
Let love find those who truly see.
I'll guard my peace, I'll own my name
And leave behind their petty blame.