Shame

Inspired by and written at the Mindful Self Compassion Teacher Training in June, 2025.

hot, dripping acrid acid

down rusted leaky metal pipes

a lump caught in the throat

stuck somewhere in the middle between bile

and words unsaid

shame is a somber companion

a first inhale at birth

a greeting once the umbilical cord is cut

shame holds my hand

to lead me over the craggy pavement

that I stub my toe on

again, and again, and again

shame puts me in a time out

and turns the lights off

shame locks my knees

and wets the bed

whispering saccharine nothings

“you’re worthless”

 “you always do this”

“you’re all alone.”

I have learned to look shame in her eye

To whisper her name into the wind

To tell her

            I see you

And I will hold you anyways

I know that you, too, yearn for love.

So though you burn me

I will take your hand –

Walk with me down this long winding road

And I will love you with all that I have.