I am my only guard

I have never been a victim
Nor have I been a survivor
I have been a transcender


I have risen above the petty, vile pain inflicted
I have become better, smarter, stronger
As a way of showing them what they couldn't do


I have traded some softness
And all my vulnerability
Packed my heart in boxes


My armor is impenetrable
My walls thicker
Built taller than can be scaled


I am my only guard
Flashing teeth
And razor nails


Spitting barbs at all who approach
Regardless of their intent
The Sphinx and Medusa combined


But I can love still
I can sacrifice myself
To make someone better
Because I will regenerate
Until I can't anymore