A mirror.
Reflect, unconditionally, the glory of all
But never radiate one's own splendor

A shell.
Provider, protector
Submitted to the furies; ever a refuge, never a refugee

A utensil.
Mere instrument, to be used and used
With no other use

A shoe.
Worn in and around
And replaced when the toll is apparent

A secret.
Put it out there, do
But keep knowledgeable to a close few

A kettle.
Boiling away on someone's behalf
Soon to be dismissed as a maker of shrill screams and hot air

A woman.
Charitable to inane ideals
When all that defines her is contrary