Vulnerable

Written the same day as "Courage".  I guess you can tell that I am struggling a bit with this whole process.

Vulnerable

Childhood memories leave me

            Carelessly open to attack.

Any word, any act may completely

            Topple my façade.

Nearly paralyzed with fear

            Breathing becomes an overt process.

I search and scan for

            Any sign of kindred help.

Will someone ease my great distress

            In a gentle, cocoon-like sign?

Or will I be subjected further yet

            And succumb to all this anxiety?

Herein lies the true test of

            Friendship, loyalty, and kindness.

(2-16-16)