We express ourselves starting from a young age. Collecting words that suit our lips, or finding music that fits our ears: we all grow towards who we wish to become or what we fear we will be. We live in a world where the freedom to express yourself is not a virtue but instead a challenge. Defending your character and inner child while growing up in this reality is downright chaotic, when those things shouldn't even have to be something we defend in the first place. Sometimes expressing yourself authentically feels like fighting for your voice alone among all others whether that be friends, family, or lovers. We are placed into a world that decides who we are before we even grow to have the chance to find who we are. Before we have the time to express who we are, if that's even supported in the place we currently are. This collection of poems is an expression of my journey through life, ages fifteen to twenty-two. It's a reflection of my inner thoughts while trying to survive through all that life threw at me. These poems are for those who have also emerged from their battles victorious. Authentic in who you are and free to express who that is because you know as well as I that is the true power in life. When you can't rely on anything else, you can learn to rely on yourself.