How better to honour the experiences of young people than through their own words - below are some poems submitted by a young person who wants to share their experience to support others and build awareness. These are so powerful, inspiring and impactful.
(reproduced with kind permission © Ash 2026)...
Poem 1 - I was never the villain...
I was never the villain.
I was the mirror everyone avoided.
Reflecting the truths they tucked behind polite smiles.
The storm that blew in when comfort demanded clear skies.
The spark that lit the room, when everyone needed it.
I was never a villain.
I was the mirror you shattered when you hated what you saw.
The storm you summoned when silence wasn't enough.
The shadow trailing behind the lies you told yourself.
I did not ask to wear your fears like a crown.
I did not beg to be cast out into your nightmares.
I only became the monster when you needed one to blame.
You wrote the story, handed me the script, and called it fate.
But even villains have hearts that remember.
And mine remembers everything.
© Ash 2026
Poem 2 Resistant
You are as hard and resistant as a laurel.
Impassive.
You do not react when he looks at you, nor do you blush or give him a touch on his skin with your fingers.
Much less do you appreciate the melodies that, with all his love,
...he dedicates to you during dawn and dusk.
And it hurts.
Your ignorance hurts.
Your cold stares and your lack of communication with him hurts.
He loves you,
he adores you.
Why can't you see it?
© Ash 2026
HYCS footnote:
Please look after yourselves. If you have been affected by any of the issues raised or need support please reach out to request HYCS counselling support or use the links in our HYCS Support Directory or the contacts here if in emotional crisis.
