PROMPT

Body Armor Stifles

TANKA POEM

Cordial and friendly, my body armor shields me from getting too close; how I yearn for connection but cannot move beyond this.

Standing nude each morn, I feel so vulnerable and I quickly grab my protective shining gear to deflect my loneliness.

Armor. Friend or foe? For too long, I have worn this, but chafe restrictions and desire the freedom of vulnerability.

Have stifled myself, until my world has collapsed into the size of a marble I can play with but keeps me isolated.

My suit of armor serves me well, but no longer saves from internal strife; so I step into life, exposed and open to love.

Feeling defenseless, even as breezes caress; a new sensation. I release protective garb to connect with life again.