Edlah Was a Walking Apology

Edlah was a walking apology. You knew he was coming by his stance. Shoulders slumped, head down. Insecurities pre-announced him a block before his arrival. Someone had done a great job convincing Edlah He was not as worthy as most. His presence said “someone has torn me up, and spit me out”, more than once, probably. Compliments were completely discounted, not fitting in with his schemata. He was like a puppy with a kick-me sign that he had constructed himself, a long time ago. We all wanted to help him, but none of us wanted to date or hire him. He lived a whole life of this, if you can imagine.