The Shell (Poem)

I wrote this poem about two years ago, after I tried to describe to someone what it was like being an outcast while I was growing up, and how it affects your ability to trust another. Something I read on another's blog brought this to mind and I wanted to share it with my readers.

Perhaps this may also help some understand why people that are hurting WILL hurt others...

The Shell

When the waters grow deeper
The world darkens before your eye
You reach and you search
Find nothing no matter how you try
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God's Light diminishes
As you hide behind that wall
Protect yourself from the darkness
With a wall strong and tall
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A knock at the door
A lance of pain sears
You lash out at the invader
As you fight off your tears
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The blow you make hits
But no matter how you try
The invader persists
Trying to make you cry
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A crack at the wall
Light floods inside
Fearing the unknown
Into the shadows you hide
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A hand reaches in
You lash out again
The hand is still there
Bloody and grim
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A gentle voice coaxes
Get out of that shell
Place your trust in Me
I will make you well
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Bewildered and frightened
You shrink back some more
Afraid heart and soul
Of the voice at the door
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The hand is still there
No harsh words are said
No scolding, no reprimand
No curse from the dead
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You place your hand
In the hand of the other
As you leave that shell
You may find a Brother

-ESA