𝗟𝗜𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗔𝗥𝗬: "The Heavy Weight of the Rain" By Ashley Jhanelle G. Ramos

Layout by: Misha Mikylla Sanchez

Published by: Kristine Joyce Soriano

Date Published: April 9, 2025

Time Published: 1:37 PM

Category: Prose

Theme: Giving in to the pressure of others and the consequences that comes with it.

I took a risk I knew I shouldn't.

I tried to tell them no, but I couldn't.

I knew I shouldn't have listened,

but the voices were too much—

filling my mind until their words became my only thoughts,

until even my own voice was nothing more than a faint whisper, lost beneath the noise.

They insisted it was the right choice,

a chance to prove myself, to rise above.

And should I hesitate and walk away,

then it's because I'm too weak,

too scared to face what was infront of me.

And so, I stepped forward—

into the storm of their pressures and expectations.

But there was no victory waiting for me,

Instead I was met with the cold, heavy rain of disappointment.

Each drop soaked me, pressing into my skin,

until everything felt heavy,

until my steps slowed,

until all I could do was stay still—

trapped in the aftermath of my own decisions.

And when the rain finally starts to slow down,

that's when regrets start pouring in.

What have I done? Why did I do it?

but it was too late, the choice was already made.

Why did I let their voices guide my steps?

Why did I become the storm—

scattering reckless actions, breaking from who I am?

But the damage is already done.

The raindrops already on the ground,

and there was no way to turn back time.

All I can do is stand here,

watching the water spread,

knowing I can’t take it back,

can’t undo what’s been done.

I gave in to their voices,

and now I bear the weight of their expectations,

the cost of silence when I should have stood my ground.

There is no way of going back,

no shelter from the aftermath.

Only me.

And the storm I find myself in.