Truth behind the smile

Sixteen years ago you sweetly said to me, "I do."

Fifteen years ago, our child was born to us.

I trusted you, you know? You knew I never was given love like I deserved.

Nine years ago my health went south.

Eight years ago I couldn't even leave bed.

You told me it was ok. You told me you would take care of me.

Four years ago you got promoted.

Four years ago you met her.

I tried not to see it. I thought nothing of it.

Four years ago you said it was over.

Four years ago you said you didn't love me.

You said because I couldn't clean. You said you would have fired me long ago.

Three years ago she cost you your job.

Three years ago you came crawling back.

I forgave you for everything. I didn't want to lose you.

Two years ago we tried to make it right.

Two years ago we tried to forget the past.

We turned a blind eye to the memories. We never spoke of it again.

One year ago I couldn't take it anymore.

One year ago I stopped pretending.

Nothing was ever fixed. Nothing ever changed.

You bought me roses. I watched them die like our marriage.

Today I'm saying I'm going. Today I'm leaving like you wanted.

No more pain. No more sorrow.    

Finally free to smile. Finally free to live.