'i Chose To Run, But Had I Stayed, Things Would Have Been Like'

For you, not for me. The words I said to myself years ago. While looking at what seemed like a reflection of myself. With clenched fist knowing I didn’t ask for any of it. Running away became a default feeling. For a long time, I thought of it. Then the opportunity came. It was my birthday. I didn’t have to stay anymore. I chose to run that day. Had I stayed, I would have been continuously robbed of my happiness. Fleeing from the unpleasantness was the only option for me. Seeking to walk on a path that seemed tranquil and safe, But unproductive to everyone around me. I chose to run, To find the road to stability. To rid myself of the enforced pedestal. To not lose the ‘sense of me’ that was left. I chose to run. With the words ‘for you not me’ echoing in my mind. Had I stayed, I wouldn’t have given myself a chance.