I Choose Me This Time

I gave my heart like a lifeline
To everyone else but me
Held the world on my shoulders
While I forgot how to breathe

Always said "yes," kept the peace
Even when it broke me down
Played the hero in their story
But now I'm not backing down

Used to think love meant sacrifice
Till I lost my own reflection
Now I see the girl inside
Deserves her own protection

I choose me this time
No more standing in the shadow of their lives
I'm not selfish, I'm just finally alive
Took the backseat too long, now I drive
I choose me-this time, this time

They called it strength when I stayed
Even when my spirit cried
I painted smiles for the pain
But now I let the truth shine

I'm not a fixer, not a cure
For wounds I didn't make
I'm not the glue for broken hearts
While mine is left to break

I've been quiet for too long
But silence never saved me
Now I sing my healing song
And let the freedom raise me

I choose me this time
No more standing in the shadow of their lives
I'm not selfish, I'm just finally alive
Took the backseat too long, now I drive
I choose me-this time, this time

No shame in saying "I need space"
No guilt in walking my own way
I've been the sun for everyone
Now it's time I feel my rays

I choose me this time
With my scars and my stars, I rise
Not a maybe, not a whisper-I'm the light
Took the long road, but I've arrived
I choose me
This time
This time