Scared
~~~
My mind plays tricks on me
The kind without a laugh
Spirits haunting memory
As I walk my solemn path
~~~
In all the words written
This is what goes unsaid
All the things that came before
And where those things have led
~~~
Even with the closest friends
The ones I hold most dear
I have no words to share with them
When it is time to speak of fear
~~~
An outward, inner strength
What they see as unafraid
Is all my fears well hidden
A character well portrayed
~~~
There is little hope of change
Little hope that one safe day
I will find the courage lacked
Truth spoken in the words I say
~~~
You share your fears so openly
In hopes of the others to save
Whatever you may think of mine
Your words are much more brave
~~~
commonsensiblyspeaking 
we all hold some things close and some are able to speak them while others are not, part of our humanity
You are assuredly right, Beth. Thank you!
Somewhere in each of our lives, there is at least one thought or action over which we feel shame and embarrassment. Sharing that with any person, no matter how much trust we have, always leads to the potential of judgement, ridicule and a host of other negative reactions. We think it’s important to appear strong and independent in other’s eyes. It makes us feel better in how we think others perceive us – even while we are busy saying we don’t care what others think. It’s a non-ending cycle.
I would whole-heartedly agree. Thanks sis!
Well, ‘my words’ are “I love this. Well penned!”
Thank you! That is very kind of you to say!
We all must learn to live with our fears, they are like our DNA, quite personal and unique. A most beautiful verse to express such deep and powerful emotions.
Thank you, my friend!
You’re very welcome my friend!
I’m only scared of snakes
All your posts are so perfect, Brad.
Thanks, Yassy!
I am sure we keep our deepest fears to ourselves, hoping that will make it less likely to manifest itself. and most of us don’t like to show any signs of weakneses… thoughtful poem, Brad…
I fully agree, Jim. Thank you!
you are welcome, Brad!
I don’t think there’s a human being on the planet who doesn’t hold a truth or fear they are afraid to speak of.
Regardless of what you say or don’t say, by simply admitting you have fears makes you one of the bravest people I know.
Thank you, Kristian! I think we hold our fears because they can so easily be used against us.
I think of the difference in my friends in terms of their openness. Some put it all out there for all the world to see, while others are much more private and may confide only in a couple of trusted friends. I’m not saying one is better than the other. It’s just a normal human difference.
And that is what makes the world go round. Thanks, Pete!
Beautiful poem Brad. I share my feelings about growing up in hopes of helping others. I have had people say things that were not nice before but not in this community. Still I don’t share everything, people probably wouldn’t believe it anyway. I think because when I was young I didn’t have a voice, it feels good to share. I was embarrassed and ashamed of the life we lived in as a child and teenager but I know it wasn’t my fault. I only had control over my actions. I think you share a lot through your beautiful words Brad. I feel like I know quite a bit about the kind of man you are and it is all good. Sending you my love. Hugs 🤗 Joni
Thank you, dear Jonikins! I return your kind love and many hugs.
Thank you received and appreciated my friend. I am proud to call you my friend. ❤️🤗 love Jonikins