The Scars Outside

The scars outside show the past
reminders of the time before
when circumstance betrayed life
asking more than I could give.

I could show them if you wish
though explanations are not enough
to let you know where I was
to share with you how far I’ve come.

With the knife I carved to feel
deep enough to bring the pain
to show bright witness to the life
red flowed away by candlelight.

Isolation gave sad sanction
to the act still marked on skin
sadness lent it’s mournful call
asking something as blood flowed.

The night time passed, morning dawned
bandages were my armor worn
to fight my way to another day
to find my way out of the pain.

Where one resides there are more
scars to show where I’ve come from
some are outer as these appear
others buried within soul’s retreat.

I beg depression to take its due
to be satisfied with damage done
to isolate is woe’s darkest goal
this is illusion in day’s fair sight.

The scars are shared in the light
pale on skin as memories
I share with you in the hope
that you’ll remind me to live again.

2016, Sean Green. All Rights Reserved, 20161006.

I was inspired to write “The Scars Outside” when I read a Tumblr posting. The writer shared their cutting experience when they felt isolated from the world. While I’ve never been a cutter, I can relate to the isolation. The outside scars are a starting point to connection and the recognition of suffering.