#17

17 embodies everything I've struggled with, struggled over. 17 means getting up and pushing forward. 17 means hanging on even when you throw me hooks instead of ropes. 17 is falling into an endless pit but looking forward to the ground because it would mean stability. 17 is louder than every thought and bigger than every dream. 17 means I am stronger than you make me feel. 17 means I can leave without running away. 17 means it is okay to be me.

this probably doesn't mean much to most people. a number cannot define you they say. a number cannot account for who you are. but let them count all these scars and know that 17 is a stronger number than they would ever know. 17 is brave. 17 is selfless. 17 could love and be loved.

17 June said goodbye to doubt and tears and bloodied wrists. 17 June is me, starting all over again.

- dina xx