Poem by Dan Stone
This softness
that you see
doesn't tell
the only tale.
Turn your vision
inside out
then look at me.
This crab's softness
is her shell,
her strength,
her power,
that's what's
underneath,
larger than the life
you may perceive.
I won't be the reason
you believe
what you believe.
I know too much
to make myself
that small,
that weak.
I've been there
and back.
I've heard it all.
I stay soft
so I can feel.
I made peace
so I don't have to care
what anybody claims
is right or wrong.
I got strong
so I can speak.