Ros de Virieux

This coat I wear is like an old friend,
It never leaves me,
It’s always here when I’m sad,
And always here when I’m alone.

This coat I wear knows me well,
It has been with me a long time,
It knows how to comfort me,
Especially when no-one loves me.

This coat I wear is for everyone to see,
It laughs and smiles,
It’s friendly and welcoming,
But this coat always cries on the inside.

This coat I wear is called shame and guilt,
It hides the hurt and pain,
It hides the abuse, hate and control,
My soul hides within the dark, quiet places.

This coat I wear is the un-me,
It has grown legs and feet,
It has become some-one else,
I don’t know who I am anymore.

This coat I wear is smothering me,
It is killing the life I want,
It does not trust anyone,
I am afraid to take the coat off.

This coat I wear is my armour,
It is not shiny or pretty,
But it loves me,
So I love it back.

My coat and I …