My Shell

The Turtle, Mixed Medium, 9 X 12

When my safety is in question, I tend to withdraw,

Sentiments lost, like broken pieces of jigsaw.

The sense of security, wanting to be guarded,

Clearing my mind from visions I had distorted.

Startled and scared, feeling quite insecure,

Retreating in my own shell, totally demure.

Caught by surprise, leaving me all confused,

Unsure how to respond, reactions bemused.

Is it wrong of me if I feel the need to be leery?

Cautious, and on the lookout, constantly weary.

Shielded and sheltered, in my shell I feel safe,

But too many restrictions, my soul I do chafe.

Must I refrain from the world and stay inside my pretty shell?

But if I do, it is nothing different from being locked up in a cell.

Devoid of challenges, excitement, and bliss,

Life’s wonderful adventures, the blessings I will miss.

Shy and coy, from my shell, I slowly peek,

Dispelling most my worries, courage I must seek.

Feeling like a turtle, keeping still in my shell,

Gathering confidence as I await to propel.

Out of my refuge, slowly trying to adjust,

Finding that special someone I could totally trust. 

Out of my hard shell, I gradually crawl out,

Feeling the world, to see what life is about.

Taking deep breaths as I fixate or get frustrated.

Calming me down, you help me navigate,

Scanning my surroundings, you listen to my needs.

Patiently awaiting, as I follow your leads.

Life is not perfect; it is blemished and flawed,

Murky shadows lurking with deception and fraud.

But without the darkness, we cannot see the light,

Without mistakes, there is no chance to make things right.

Finding the link between the good and the bad,

A necessary component, much like a comrade.

Darkness teaches us lessons we will not learn otherwise,

So thank you for helping me face the blessings in disguise.