Shame

Oh overwhelming, suffocating shame, why wont you leave me be?
I want to be able to hold my head up, I want to be set free!
In a thousand little traumatic instances, you took my self esteem.
Now with my posture bowed low, I don't even dare to pursue my dreams.
Every kind word, compliment or deed, I cannot accept.
My heart and mind wont let me, I am inept.