Dear Self

Dear Me, Self-protective armor, you disguise yourself as skin Characterized by defensiveness avoidance and fear of commitment. But you work it. You’re polished every day, cleansed by scented soaps Moisturized with cocoa infused lotions and oils. Is this why I am fond of you? Self-protective armor, acting on defense Overthinking. Rethinking. Not thinking. Stop thinking. J U S T- DO But that was then--- this is now I lay you down and clothe myself with confidence and excellence limb by limb less of you, more of me. Self-protective armor, I’ve outgrown you… Sincerely, Year 23