Words

Words are powerful. Words are strong.
Words help you feel that you might belong
to someone
or somewhere
or me, myself.
Words are an unusual, yet welcome, wealth.

Words can be dangerous. Words can be cruel.
Words keep the vulnerable feeling like fools
to them, themselves
or someone
somewhere.
Words are an agony no one should bear.

Words, when considered, can deliver a gift.
Words, when released, can manifest a shift.
Words, when ignored, can leave us alone.
Words, when heard, can be felt in the bone.
Words, when crafted, can deliver a thrill.
Words, whispered softly, may trigger a chill.
Words, when shouted, steal your attention.
Words, from the loudest, often need no more mention.
Words, when shared, bring us together.
Words, when cared for, can linger forever.