a tear

A tear in my eye
And not from hearing a sad story
Or feeling the sharp tear of pain

But from hearing my own voice
My heart opening
And letting flow that inner pain

That inner loneliness
That doubt
That unvarnished truth

That simple phrase
I am a poet

For years I have pretended
Postured
Preened

Pushed out my cloak
As if to make more
And hidden the chasm within

Yes I am more than this
Whatever snippet you hear

And yet I do not control your thought
You hold your impression alone
Of how I might be

Who am i
What is this stuffed bag
Overflowing with life’s wounds

I am mightier beyond words
When it is my true self that speaks

Stands strong
And yet, so weak
Open

vulnerable

me