Question and Response

Open your eyes, take a good long look
Tell me just what you see
Tell me the truth that stands in my shoes
What sparkles when you're looking at me.

Do you see the stress, the heartache, the pain
The work that I've given my all
Do you see the years of trying, of striving, of gain
The scrapes that I've earned when I fall?

Do you see the friends that I've left
Achingly so far behind?
How about the ones that I've yet to make
And the ones that are still on my mind?

Can you see the people that love me the most
The ones who miss me too much?
Can you see that I'm a person, with longings and hope
With a heart that too many can touch.

Tell me if you see me, hiding inside
Crouching behind my defense.
Or merely a shell, battered but whole
Seeking her own recompense.

- I see far too much just out of reach
In a person I just barely know
Someone amazing, enthralling and dear
Even when she's feeling so low.

I see so much talent, and drive left to spare
Someone who's truly her own.
Who keeps right on swinging and hitting homeruns
No matter what curveballs she's thrown.

I see an individual in a world without
One of the few I perceive.
I see one among millions, the rarest of friends
One in whom I can truly believe.