SHINY ARMOR
Please be honest with yourself. Love what you do and do what you love. Sometimes all the shit you’ve been through in your life has taught you to put on that invisible shiny armor and walk with confidence. Sometimes I just want to throw that “armor” away, but now I really don’t want to throw it in the trash. I wanted to fight it for so long and rip the tin off of my chest, but I don’t feel that need anymore. If I let it fall apart, it would be like leaving my loving heart behind to rot. Armor is not a bad thing, it’s a costume worn for turmoil, and can be refurbished for triumphant times. It is a meaningful symbol of having survived a shitty phase of life. Having to wear “armor” before age 22 (even before age 13) is not a desirable task to do, but all I can say is, “I did it.” Sometimes leaving hard earned armor to the side is a sign of internal weakness of the self. It’s not an actual physical garment, it’s an invisible concept of survival. Over time, your inner strength surfaces, simply because you wore the shiny armor.
Tears. You’ve always had wisdom beyond your years. You see beneath. Yes, you are a survivor. You did it. I love the line “can be refurbished for triumphant times.” Keep writing, my dear. Write your way into your new future, and you may help some people along the way.
“…a costume worn for turmoil, and can be refurbished for triumphant times” – This is perfect!
YES!!!
I have read, re-read and then read again, parts that struck a chord loudly. I understand all too well about wearing armor before the age of 13, that armor clings like plastic wrap that sticks to every surface to serve as a protection. But you are correct, as your inner strength grows, the armor can be cast aside…
Thank you for helping me view this through a different lens, and to see my own armor in a new way.
Yes! Yes! Yes! I get it! So beautiful! Thank you!!
Mama said it so well, as did April and Lori. Thanks oldsoulyoungwoman. Beautiful.
Wow! I guess we all have a suit of armor of some sort, especially if you have lived most of your years of life like I have. We have all survived some kind of shit in our lives I suppose. I wonder if I ever take my armor off? I will have to check that out. Great write, this one.