Chapter 28
Soft Centre, Strong Guard
Within my gold beats a tender, open heart, around it, sharp green leaves to keep harm apart. I love so deeply, yet I guard it well, building a safe place where my love can dwell. Softness is not weakness, I have come to know — it is the sweetest part of how I grow.
Deep at my heart the golden centre glows — tender and warm, where all my love first grows. Around it rise green leaves with pointed edge, a sturdy fence to keep all harm at ledge. The world outside may judge or press or take, but here inside, no gentle thing can break. I learned too soon that softness needs defence, so I grew sharp where safety makes good sense. Surrounded by crowds, I keep this quiet space, hold close my treasures, shield my children’s grace. My kindness stays, but guarded well and wise — strength in my leaves, and light within my eyes. Softness is not weakness, I have come to know; it is the sweetest reason that I grow. With every thorn I love them safer still — soft golden heart, protected, calm, and still.