The Protected Heart

I am a robot sheathed in skin.

My shell protects the heart within.

You think you see a person real,

But the truth is easy to conceal.

I cannot allow you to get too near,

For I fought too hard to get to here.

I was not hurt by sling, or arrow,

But oh how painful the eyes that narrow.

The hate filled look, or one that scorns,

Could wound my soul, and leave me torn.

The condemning word, was a cut to the heart.

It rent my psyche, tore me apart.

So, I’ve erected this outer shell,

And will keep it in place ‘till I know you well.

If then, in you, I can place my trust,

You will find I will do all I must,

To show you I have a soft inner core,

Only seeking friendship, and nothing more

Jeanette Marie