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