cut from events and ensuing wounds,
body helpless, intently attuned.
fragile afflictions, tender and bruised,
crouch and hide, any contact refused.
slits crust into scabs, scabs into scars,
fallout lingering off the radar.
aches are chasms far under the skin,
unspoken secrets burrowed within.
tapestries cut from serrated scenes,
inner narratives threaded between.
quilted patchworks span uncharted lengths,
blemishes now reshaping as strengths.
badges that mark surviving the blaze,
scars disfigure in beautiful ways.
*Honorable mention: 2023 Valiant Scribe Poetry Competition.
During almost 25 years as a speaker, leadership consultant and student of people, Chris White has facilitated thousands of coaching sessions with people worldwide. He occasionally admits to holding degrees in mathematics and statistics, and in his free time he savors adventures with his family and lounging with their dogs under the shade of two post oak trees.