I will no longer

hide my scars to make

you comfortable,

when I have fought to

survive

every battle…

I will not cover my

vulnerability with armor;

I choose instead to be

brave…

I will speak when I am

lead to be truthful

and I will be kind in

the telling of it…

I will draw lines in

the sand that you may

not cross and still

be a part of me…

there is a decency of spirit,

an integrity of self,

a compassion for humanity

that you have to hold

if you are to be welcome

in my life…

These may be your words,

they may suit your

needs now,

but if your actions

don’t exemplify these

truths

you cannot remain

with me.