On Display

I’m weary of being on display

for others to assess

inside these walls of my home

as well as when I am brave enough

to cast shadows along the sidewalks

to be vulnerable within a community 

in which at times I feel like an unwanted outsider

my heart often beating wildly outside of my chest

as if wanting to escape the cage of my ribs

and yet there is a steely determination 

to bring YOU

even for a brief moment 

into my world

a desire to speak my truth 

even if it causes myself 

and everyone around me discomfort

My shadows are your shadows

if only you could have enough courage to see 

the mirror of my suffering

to meet my unwavering gaze 

Dare yourself not to look away!

That.is.what.it.means.

To grow together in love

Angela Minard 2021©