HIS and HERS

HIS

He shrinks down lower in his chair

As the mindless arrows fly by

Trying to avoid their vicious sting.

Nothing prepares him for the warfare

And prevention seems impossible.

Where did the chest target come from?

A subtle attack on his humor

Or demeaning words said with a smile,

Violent kicks under the table.

His appeal is silent and desperate.

The pain in his quiet resolve shouts.

How can she miss those begging eyes?

Her lack of self love and self respect

Spur her attacks and anger forward

At the safest and closest bullseye.

She continues to pull back and fire

Differences paraded and mocked.

His pride lies lifeless at her feet.

Her unconscious arsenal continues

They soar by careless but sure

When will she open her eyes?

And see her guilt?

HERS

I might see too clearly

The reflection of eyes.

I may feel intensely

The emotions I hide.

I fear the eruptive

The sad fragility

The peril and rawness

In being “Exposed me.”

My secrets unburied

Where would my safety lie?

If my masks fall away

The cold woman must die.

My heart held in your hands

Is it safe or a risk?

Trusting you to hold me

Beating scared in your fist.

Do you deserve chances?

Has the time simply passed?

If I open my heart

Is it destined to last?

The fears that control me

Harshly blinding like sun

Will not let me love you.

I am choosing to run.