My shell is peeling
making me feel exposed
naked
all because
I am opening
like a rose
but afraid
its petals will fall too soon
to the harsh conditions
of this world
With icy apathy
neurotic neglect
and scorching storm
crashing against
the rock hard surface
of my own creation
cracking
yet unwavering
far longer
than it should have
but with it
evolution
ready to share
part of me
with the world
like a dead dandelion
scattering its seeds with the wind