Scared

Scared of the monster under the bed

of the drain hole in the shower

Anticipation fills with dread,

A new fear found every hour

 

Scared of tapping at the window,

Of robbers, killers, and shadowed men.

On the ledge, a crow watches below,

Bringing back the fear once again.

 

Scared of exams, tests and scores

the need for approval and peace

scared that there was judgment over what they wore

scared of the guns and cuffs of the police 

 

Each fear etched on their arm

until the fear of fear overtook

 

The heavy breathing

the cold edge of release

the silent grieving

sensing the peace

 

Fear, now a coward's quiet place

when white lines became red

leaving a crimson trace

and it became the safety net