When I Look at You

When I look at you
I don't see
"Bad person".
I see someone
Who needs support,
Who needs help,
Who is hurt
By their past
And hasn't healed yet.

When I look at you
I don't see
"Screw up".
I see someone
Who is fighting
But is getting tired,
Who has these tools,
But is struggling
To use them,
Who is trying
But can't show it well.

When I look at you
I don't see
"Dangerous".
I see
"Help me."
"Don't give up
On me."
"Don't leave me."

When I look at you
I don't see
"Bully".
I see hurt.
I see desperation.
I see a friend in need.

When I look at you
I don't see
"Toxic".
I see someone
Who needs support,
Who needs help,
Who is hurting
By their past
And hasn't healed yet.

Behavior is deeper
Than skin-deep.