I wanted to be loved.
I didn't want romantic relationships,
but I wanted to feel nurtured,
cared for.

I knew I was a lesbian,
but I still dated men.
I wanted validation.
I wanted to feel small again.
I wanted to feel important.

I hid my true self so more people would like me.
I didn't share my interests in worries of being made fun of,
and I didn't share what I was going through.
I didn't want people to think I was weird.

Now I show my true self.
Not as many people like me,
but that's alright.
I don't like them either.