Getting stronger

Taking each photo down
Slowly, one by one
Days or weeks between
I don't need them anymore

That doesn't mean it's over
Not for me anyway
They have a safe place
Home with each letter addressed to you

It just means I no longer need them
I can do this on my own
Me, I, for the first time
I AM strong enough now

I still desire your touch,
Your smile is intoxicating,
I would give up everything
To hear you laugh again

But I no longer rely
On those things to get me by
I don't need the constant reminder
You may or may not be there.

I am my own person
I always said only I
Can make myself happy
But I question if I meant it before

Did I really mean that?
I think I was living a lie
Telling myself I was strong
When in reality I was weak

It's taken a nightmare
A horrid dream I wish to wake
But it's here and now.
And to cope is a beautiful outcome

I love you and always will
I crave to hear you say "I'm here"
Or to show up at my door
But until that day
I will prove my growth.