it’s funny
because while everything appears sound,
i know where the weak spots in the walls are-
in the drywall sloppily smeared with spackle
to make it a bit more presentable to passersby

if i run my fingers over the wall, they skim,
briefly pausing, and then continue

the soft spots.

i can’t see them, but i know they’re there
how could i forget

if i apply the slightest amount of pressure,
i can feel the material begin to give,
to fold into itself

my soft spots.

a gentle reminder
that while my appearance suggests “intact”,
there are holes i can fall right back into
if i let myself

if i let someone else push me
if i let them guide me
naïvely

this is why i keep people at arm’s length

keep your friends close and your enemies closer…
but you’re all enemies
if you're on the other side of my wall

one chance.
one opportunity to determine your place.
no redemption.