Supple Soul

but I say
rise up now

clad in colors
of a joyful life

rebuke the strife
do not bow

tilt against convention

the prevailing norm
is a toxic storm

buck the winds of brute rebuff
stare down the face of ridicule

if buffeted by cruel
condemnation
from the foolish
sadly blown off course
refrain from force

be not inclined to fear
nor falter
choose instead
to tame the dread

to stay ones ground
leaning hard on raw conviction
steadfast bound

be anchored bold
and deeply hold
to the genuine
do not resent

remain flexible
to withstand the blows
of frightened those
who would see you swayed
and have you bent

your broken spirit
for so to savor

stand head high
back straight
don’t ever waver

be never rigid
brittle
prone to break

do not forsake
your heart song

wisdom is a supple soul
skewered through
by true enlightenment

pierced clean and strong
by wonder
bleeding hope
and justice