The Sword And The Shield 

I want to be the sword and the shield the protector and defender 

I want to spread my message and pull others back from the brink 

Back off of the precipice that they find themselves in 

I endeavor for my poetry and my message to reach as many as possible 

Because I don’t want anyone to be left out 

I can’t stand the thought of those struggling in the trenches of their own mind 

Waging a war against themselves 

The chemical imbalances 

Their inner critics 

And their demons to feel excluded 

To feel alone 

But sometimes I feel like I fail 

So may this book be everything I want it to be this is my prayer today 

This is the prayer I pray every night as I fall asleep 

May this book find its audience and may they find it 

May it help you heal and guide you 

May it always remind you 

You’re not alone 

That there are brighter days 

And may it equip you to be the sword and the shield 

That defends others 

May it bless you with wonderful purpose 

And awe-inspiring knowledge that you don’t struggle alone 

You don’t fight alone 

May it remind you on your worst days 

That you are more than your struggles 

They may define you in some ways 

But that is the exception not the rule 

They are not the end all be all of your existence 

You are more than that 

I offer not hope but a promise all you need do  

Is read and take my hand