I feel like I'm waiting to exhale Like I've held my breath longer than I should I feel like I'm waiting to be understood To be seen, heard, to be handled with care. I'm waiting for a safe place to be soft Or maybe I learn best when yelled at. Maybe it's the tough love that helps me grow. Maybe it's the hard words that pushed me into who I am. But I still feel like I'm waiting to exhale Like I can't catch my breath nor let it go Why do I only beautify with crushing? Day in and day out Without withering Or losing my color And remaining flavorful. Sometimes it feels like too much All at once I see the need And desire the walk So, I do not fall on my understanding But move with the understanding provided Waiting for the moment When the goal is met And my breath is restored And I'm not waiting to exhale anymore.