I’m Just Being Honest (Poetry)

A poem I began forming in my head while walking to the gym yesterday. Before I started working out, I jotted down the first stanza and bits of the next one, plus the overall concept.

I’m Just Being Honest

I will not give into

compassion fatigue.

I will not let my abundance

of empathy

run dry.

If I need to,

I will take time.

I will step away

to recharge.

I will not let others

lack of empathy

turn me to stone.

When my compassion

is tried

and tested,

may I come out softer,

gentler,

kinder,

and even more

compassionate.

May the worst emotional

burn victim

find relief and safety

in my company.

May they let me in

when the blackened

blisters of sorrow,

rage, fear,

and hurt,

burst,

peeling off their heart.

As they scream in agony

to make it stop.

Let me be there.

…I have been there.

I can show you

my scars

and assure you

that your festering wounds

too

can heal.

My light may waver

or dim

at times.

I am human.

When upset, I too

can become distant

and cold.

But rest assured

my warmth will return

for you too are human

and for that,

and that alone

I will love you.

I will comfort you.

Even if you are cruel

and twist my empathy

to suit your own needs,

I will