Shedding Skins

Sometimes we duck our heads

And turn away from sight.

Sometimes we choose to succumb and yield,

Afraid to carry the fight.

Sometimes the crutch we think we need,

Eats and not heals our heart.

Sometimes the weight of unyielding hurt,

Blows us all apart.

But deep within the flame still flickers,

The joy of old persists.

The spark that charmed an ocean wide,

Refused to say desist.

It burns, though duller, deep within

Waiting for the day,

When once again the glow will rise,

And hold the hurt at bay.

The time for shedding skins is now,

Future joys are there to take.

Take courage in your love of one,

Leave all within your wake.

Reclaim your place on the mountain top,

Bellow your voice so high.

Reclaim the love within yourself,

The Me, Myself and I.

Brave forward with a smile so wide,

Stride strong with a glowing beam.

Leave behind the hurt amassed,

Leave only joy within the seams.

Accept the challenge! Accept the task!

Cast off the cloak of doubt!

Tell the world that you are back!

It’s time to shout! Shout! SHOUT!