I Was Not Built to Dim

I was born with light in my hands,

the kind that reaches

before it learns to protect itself.

I loved loudly.

I trusted geography too much.

I thought distance was only a measurement,

not a language for goodbye.

There were nights

I called old names like prayers,

my voice fragile with hope,

my heart forgetting

that some doors close quietly.

I am not ashamed of that girl.

She was lonely, not foolish.

She wanted to be held by familiarity.

Now I glow differently.

Not to be chosen;

but to be true.

If they watch from far away,

let them.

Stars do not step closer

to be believed.

☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️

🌸This is the first poem in NOYA’s NO LONGER HERSELF series ; a reflection on staying visible, luminous, and true even when relationships shift or distance grows.

🌸If this resonates, I’d love to hear your thoughts.

🌸How do you keep shining when others drift? Hit reply ; your reflection becomes part of the conversation.*