I wish that with these words I could craft
a warm nest to nuzzle in
or a pair of cupped hands
or an alcove of bubble wrap

I wish that with these words I could
protect you from the harsh ones
or not let you see the stares
or shield your worrying mind from its own thoughts

But I can't.

no matter what words I write
they cannot create a shelter

no matter how hard I hug you
you are still exposed to the world

no matter how many "Its okay"'s I whisper
you still shake your head in disbelief

I'm sorry my words aren't enough
I cant craft them into an alcove of safety
or hide you from the judgmental world
or comfort you until you're truly okay.

But what I can offer is this:
a shoulder to cry on
lips to give advice from
arms to receive a hug from

and a friend whose heart and soul loves you.