I am reaching out to see

If you are reaching out to me

For though it’s hard, I really mean

To be safe and to be seen

I am peeling off the layers

Hardened by snubs and shame and glares

To let my eyes again have sight

Though squinting, turn away from light

The darkness beckons me, retreat

Back to the cell of safe defeat

But if I stand strong, I will see

The light and love to set me free