In many ways we all struggle with the need to be heard. Come 2018, my poetry's one of those ways for people to hear me out. It's a way to make sure I'm making sense of everything. A way to hear myself. Society and politics haven't changed. However, my views on public scrutiny, and ostracization, have. Your mental health, your sanity, is harder to keep now than ever. It's as if you have to walk on eggshells with your words. The fear of offending someone gets greater every day. This year, part of me let this fear go. I said what I needed to say, in a hopefully non-offensive way. So I keep talking (writing) in hopes that someone may hear (read) something that helps. These journals are a way for you to hear what's said to myself in my head. An example of how I cope with my illness. My hopeful path to better self-esteem, confidence, break-downs, and build-ups. I hope you enjoy the journey!