To Share With a Stranger

When you ask to see

my poetry,

You do not realize,

That you are asking me to share

my soul,

my pain,

my truth.

And while yes,

I so desperately

want to share with you.

My insecurities and doubts,

keep me locked and guarded.

They keep me unwilling

to let my audience

my, 'you'

interpret and digest

my written words.

Tell me,

How can I open myself up,

that much -

to a stranger -

Someone who does not know

my voice,

my charisma,

my complete,

and perfected ability

to be

"completely fine"

Despite what I write.

I do not know how,

I am supposed to share,

With you,

With no shame.

-{R.M.}