That’s Not Who You Are

You’re not the anxiety; you’re not the addiction. 

You’re not the depression losing hold of conviction. 

You’re not the perfectionist, rage, or cognition.You’re not the attachment seeking recognition.

That’s just a part of you trying to find, 

Some sort of protection, keep you out of a bind.

Holding its own, so loyal, so strong.

This part is so tired, alone all along.

That tension you feel, it’s asking for presence,

“Attention?” You ask, trying to make sense.

Take some courage, get curious, you have everything within,

To listen and show up how you wish it had been.

“That can’t be true,” I hear you protest,

“That part drags me straight to the thing I detest.

It’s better to ignore, bottle up, or hide.”

“Shame on you,” I hear the Critic chide.

But what if you stayed, noticed your fears, 

Tuned in to the part that’s be hidden for years.

What if you built the trust that’s been broken, 

Remembered again who to put your hope in.

What if you saw all your beautiful parts, 

Fighting for one cause, the safety of your heart.

What if you cupped their young face in your hands,

Reminding them it’s on you they can depend.

Those hurts deep inside, you can handle with courage.

Speak with compassion, they’re not your age. 

Keep calm, get curious, clear and creative,

With confidence building, connect, be innovative.

Then be. Just be.

Feel alongside.

Reminding this part there’s no need to hide.

Slowly tears come, it rains then it pours.

It really was life or death, their way not yours.

Being true to you meant the loss of connection,

Winning them, losing you, the cost for affection.

So release it, to water, to earth, air, or fire. 

Let it burn, let it blow, letting go of all ire.

Trade for peace or belonging, a message from above.

Then hold it, experience a sense of Self-love.

Feel the balance within, all parts co-exist.

Take on a new role, lower their fists.

Keep in touch, check back in, you’re never far,

Take a breath, be at rest knowing that’s who you are.