In essence, the aged scar of an old scratch looks an awful lot like the new scar of a burn.
But is there a difference between the two?
What I've found is quite simple: The aged scar of a scratch is something reminiscent. It reminds you of all of the shit you went through to earn that scar. Or should I say, inflict that scar upon yourself. The new scar of a burn is more of a harsh reminder of what you're going through now; dreading the moment you try to forget your post traumatic stress disorder or your anxieties.
Though self harm is not safe physically, I feel it's safe mentally. It may be addictive in some cases, but it helps me release all of the pain and torment that my head puts me through.
Some people may not be able to handle holding the flame of a lighter or match up to their forearm and let it singe shreds of skin from their bodies, but I can. Others may not be able to take the slow, agonizing pain of scratching away at their legs mercilessly with a sharp pair of scissors until blood flows freely, but I can.
Some may not know how to release their pain, and they die. But I don't. I chisle away at my cold clump of marble until it is turned in to a masterpiece, no matter how many scars it may have.
