We perceive things differently—
hugging them only in ways we know how.
And so, we barely meet halfway.
Still, words are thrown,
beaten,
slitting open wounds that once lay sleeping,
penetrating an abyss
barely concealed by a fragile veil.
Even so, I stand here today—
a sentimental fool, as always,
apprehending every situation that fits,
viewing each one as an opportunity to grow
through experience.
still choosing softness, even when it hurts.