Flares of light, brighter than stars.
They pierce through the darkness,
Pierce through my weakness,
And lodge deep within my heart.

Like grappling hooks,
They pull me back from the edge,
Remind me of who I am
And who I'm not,
Who I'm sometimes tempted to be.

A lighthouse, a lifeline, an anchor.
A reminder that I'm not alone.
The simple whispered breath of declaration,
Or the sweet goodnight text of appreciation,
I feel safer than I've felt before.

Sticks and stones
Are paper and leaves
When words can break me apart
Or heal the chasm inside of me.
Insecurity shrinking before honesty.

A diary of memories,
Moments of security
And assurance of you,
Inked beneath my skin
Like a radiant tattoo.