I lock myself
beneath layers of doors and walls
when the pain becomes terrible enough
to cause my heart to shift and tremble
in the very place it feels safe.
I may feel sheltered behind these barriers,
my being may as well.

But I must open myself up,
even though it may feel nearly impossible.
Those who want to help
are only filled with love
and will do anything and everything
to help me when I need them the most.

Those who adore me do not
deserve my abrupt departure.