Physical pain is fleeting,
but shame is eternal
especially
for one such as me
who's struggles are kept
internal.

What whips and lashes
spikes and prods
could do to skin
could never hurt so much
as the whispers said
from within.

Reminders of our past
are the heaviest chains of all
the most bittersweet echo
the only one we answer to
when ever it may call.

Shame is the gateway
to a path of self destruction,
for no matter how many walls you try to build
they will do little to offer protection.

Live with it you must
but not forever, dear
we made our mistake
oh look who's come to join
it's our old friend
fear.