The Shield

Blackness fills your view. The brutal claws ripping, Cleaving the flesh of your heart. Relentless pain choking out your breath, Suffocating you with misery and gloom. Take my hand, I’ll never leave you! I’ll fight the anguish that consumes you, Though it cost me dearly. I’ll share your pain, The river of empathy Raging strong in my veins. If only I could remove your pain-- I would relinquish myself to save you. But, utterly helpless, I cannot stop the torture. Instead I’ll hold you in my arms, Shielding your beaten heart as best I can. Softening the harsh blows, Taking the lash upon my own back-- Even if it leaves me raw and bleeding. Feed off my strength, Hide in my embrace. The night can’t last forever, I’ll bring you through. Even when the shadows are the blackest And the cold creeps toward your core, Don’t let your heart grow numb. My warmth can save us both. Never lose faith, the dawn will break. The sun’s brightness will touch you again.