The Words

my eyes close
the air grows thin
the emotions of those around me
cling like shrink wrap to my frame
I begin to fold in on myself

my bones tremble and shake
my muscles seize and shutter
my jaw clenches and grinds
I don't dare move for fear of collapse

I refuse to fall though I can not move
I refuse to die though this is not living
my soul folded and kneaded
beaten down to size

then the words rise within me
brushing my soul with hope
igniting my body with purpose
wonderful words of gold and silk

Whispers that weave into my heart
and strengthen its beat
shouts that hammer metal to my frame
and brace me against the outside

until the inside can withstand
the pressure outside
the words fill me with beauty and strength
I did not think I had

The words cradled me
The words soothed me
The words challenged me
The words lead me back to myself