in order to vanquish fear

it must be admitted

rather than ignored, denied,

 

shoved down. too proud

to recognize, tentacles

wrapped around tight

 

and tighter the longer

that its presence is unheeded.

avoiding feelings such

 

as these is a perilous sport.

instead, make space, and

while you would prefer

 

not to give it a home long

term, it is visiting now.

it has lessons to teach and

 

as you acknowledge and listen,

leaning right in, this is where

understanding and freedom lies.

 

©Heather Pound 2023

 

image:Jeffery Erhunse/Unsplash