I've learned to pull my punches in
Deflect the blows that hurt the most
A hasty pace lent to hard decisions
A steady stumble as I switch places
I'm trying hard to keep this footing
As this world shifts without hesitating

The cycle I live folds in on itself
The twists and turns, another bend
The secrets kept just to keep me in

Calm and cool hiding the heartbeat
Pumping blood and pounding in my throat
Choking on the things I can't say
Emotions I could never articulate
Words I utter always causing trouble
Losing friends and setting fires

The best work I've done
The smoking hole left in my chest
The feel of steel as I aim again