My Azure Soul

The azure of my wings, once bright, now stained with fear, Each falling grade a shadow, whispering in my ear. My mother's expectations, a weight upon my flight, A constant, crushing pressure, dimming all my light. No gentle words of comfort, no "I'm proud of you," Just harsh and angry whispers, "Do better, see it through!" The scores reflect my failings, a canvas painted gray, And in her disappointed eyes, I see a storm's display. Her anger flares like wildfire, a searing, bitter pain, A fear that chills my spirit, a constant, pouring rain. The perfect grades I chase, a desperate, futile quest, To silence her displeasure, and find a moment's rest. This azure butterfly, once soaring, strong, and free, Is trapped within a cage of fear, for all the world to see. Each bruise upon my spirit, a testament to strife, A silent, desperate longing, for a gentler, loving life. I yearn for understanding, for kindness, and for grace, To find my own true colors, in this lonely, shadowed place. To fly beyond the anger, to heal the wounds within, And find my azure soul again, where true acceptance can begin.