I have lived through tough times that tore at my soul,

Carried burdens that hurt, but they made me whole,

The nights were long, and the silences loud,

Yet there I stood, unwavering, defiant and proud.

Bruised by battles though I’ve never been broken,

My spirit speaks in every language, but hardly has it spoken,

I’ve walked through flames they thought would me consume,

A seed of defiance was left to grow and to bloom.

I am a survivor I wear every scar,

Each a reminder of just how strong we are,

I am a warrior with fire in my veins,

Turning defeat into armour and chains.

The road behind me is littered with pains,

But every step forward is a strength that remains,

I fight for my dreams, for my right to be free,

I fight with the light that’s burning in me.

You may see some wounds, but please look deeper, then deeper still,

There you will find the strength and the courage that I feel,

I am a survivor. I am a warrior,

And I will not kneel.