What is Poetry?

I'm not a poet. I don't think that's where my journey will ever take me, BUT, I've been wondering, what the heck makes something poetry? Is there a formula? A special format? Or is it whatever we want it to be, just shorter?

I truly have no idea what the 'correct' way to do poetry is, and I'd shy away from calling myself a poet. However, I'd like to share something from one of my recent journal entries, something poetic.

I was dealing with extreme anxiety centered around my Celiac Disease and going out to eat at a restaurant. The social anxiety itself was debilitating, and even though that may sound dramatic, I'm here to advocate for those who experience it - it's not.

I'm exhausted.

mentally, physically destroyed.

rest, refresh, reenergize.

pizza, please. no more gluten.

no more crowds.

respect. please.

goodnight.