Persevering and Breaking

There is an unsettling interval

Between persevering and breaking,

In which we must consciously choose

To continue to fight with all our might

Setting aside feelings for fortitude

Or to allow ourselves to crack open

Letting the feelings seep through.

There is no right or wrong decision;

At times it is wiser to hold our shields close

Keeping a level head through the chaos

Turning inward to draw the last of our strength

To withstand the battles ahead.

And at other times, we must fall apart

In safe spaces, where our hearts are cradled

To release enough pain from inside

That we can piece ourselves back together.

Dear soul, I am comfortably numb

Hidden behind a fortress of protection

I am strong, independent, mindful,

Aware of the defense mechanisms in my mind,

How they toughen up before a storm

Yet when the last of the rain has passed

I will need to quietly fall apart

Again and again, softly and calmly,

The way we do when there is finally relief.