Overcompensate

I try my best

Actually, I try to be better

I overcompensate

I need to prove myself

Prove that I am the same

That I am equal

That I pull my weight

So they can’t complain

I end up suffering

And unable to do things

So I feel useless

I feel like a failure

But why do I do this?

I have no need too

It is because I am afraid

Afraid of the judgment

But those who matter

They do not care

Their main concern

Is that I take care of myself

So now with time on my hands

I sit back and think

Who or what is important

Whose opinion matters?

What matters is me

That I am well enough

I need to say no to them

And look after myself

My health is important

It makes me able to be and do

To be there for others

And help those in time of need

Jo Anne Kennedy

April 2020