Beat Me Down-
Build Me Back Up
I am Peter Driscal
I see the repeating image of Cole’s fist hitting my face
I hear the surrounding students screaming “Fight! Fight! Fight!” as Cole pounds my head harder against the side walk
I feel blood dripping down my swollen face
I am as hopeless as a plant with no sun

I dream of the day I don’t get picked on
I worry that Cole may go back to being as mad as a hornet
I want the world to be at peace
I hope Cole and I will stay together like two peas in a pod
I am troubled with my feelings

I understand I will never be the same
I try to erase any suicidal thoughts from my mind
I forgive Cole for his brutal attack
I touch my lips and hope the next words that come from them will not have a s-s-stutter
I am Peter Driscal and I approve this poem