by Jenna Siuta
Before now, I had never been an independent person. I relied on other people to help get me through my days. Never having a mind of my own.
Before that, I didn’t know if I was going to make it to the next day.
Before that, I met some people who were not the best option to be introduced into my life. Drugs, alcohol, and lies surrounded them. But I overlooked that.
Before that, I could barely stand on my own and make decisions for myself. Always wanting to know what people would think about me. Will they see me as inferior? Judge me? Talk about me behind my back? What will they do?
Before that, I never knew about my body being completely used for someone else’s purpose.
Before that, I was a 14 year old girl with years of built up trauma haunting me. Things that I swore I would never tell a soul. Things that eventually came out… not by choice and not by me.
Before that, I thought I had found good friendships. The kinds that would last a lifetime. But that was all before they ruined my high school life.
Before that, I was just a 12 year old girl with years of built up trauma haunting me. Just trying to get through each and every day without looks and stares.
Before that, I was just a normal kid. A normal elementary school kid with big hopes and dreams for my future.
Before that, I didn’t realize what my life would become. How difficult it would be to survive with years of trauma.
Before that, I didn’t know how strong I would become. A true survivor. Getting past years of hurt and being… independent. A phrase that I never thought I would be defined with.
Before everything, I thought the hardest part of my life would be picking out what clothes to wear to school the next day.
I am a strong and independent woman. I am outspoken, and I don’t need anyone in my life that will drag me down. This life doesn’t define me and who I am, before now.
