backache

All my life, I wanted to outmatch Atlas. I was determined to hold every world upon my back--my world, my mother's world, your world.

Especially your world.

And for a while, I did. I was everything you needed me to be. I wiped your tears, left candy on your doorstep, brought soup when you were feverish. I gave up my first kiss so no stranger could ruin yours. I was so happy to be your pillar.

But when Atlas stumbled, you didn't know how to be my pillar. When Atlas fell flat on his face, your own world became too heavy for you to bear.

I'm so, so sorry I never taught you how.

I'm so sorry that I still haven't gotten back on my feet.

I'm so sorry that I can't hold up our worlds anymore, and I'm so sorry that I can't expect you to help me.

No matter how many times you forgive me, I will always be sorry.