My skin is but a map
of where I have been
and where I am headed.

My skin is but a blueprint
of what was meant to be
and the reality of what is.

My skin is but a shell
for this body that
protects my soul.

My skin is but a visual
representing nothing
that’s inside.

My skin is but a scroll
that’s filled with
judgements of others.

My skin is but a shield
as my core remains
undamaged.

My skin may be battered and bruised,
the map starting to blur,
the blueprint starting to fade,
the shell starting to crack,
the scroll full, and
the shield scratched.

But my soul is still me.
It’s untouched by
anything external.

It’s intact and whole
protected by my skin.

~ Kristie Bueno