I’ve closed my heart before
locked it tightly– buried the
key beneath layers of
shoulds and coulds and woulds
I’ve watched myself walk away
treading carefully, moving backwards
longing for an explanation
some semblance of the truth
I’ve understood the sting
of rejection– internalized
its pointy edges, embracing
their lessons along with the pain
I’ve walked blindly through years
at a time telling myself
stories I knew were untrue
to support a growing construct
I’ve isolated myself out of
necessity– shouldering my
burdens and tumbling forward
with an unquestioned resolve
I’ve conceived of a love like
the one that I’m sensing– its
fluid lines and unguarded circles–
its quiet devotion– an unstated truth
I’ve opened my heart to you
like no other– without agenda
understanding that time exists
to live within each moment
I’ve uncovered a strength and
solidity I’d only heard whisper
before you entered and showed me
sometimes it’s okay to shout
the edges of myself 