I am broken. I feel it in my bones. It wasn’t supposed to be like this. In my mind I stand shiny, and new. A gleaming thing with flashing lights. That awe’s, and is venerated by you, and me.

I grew up thinking that was what I needed to be. I learned it from others, those close and far. Please forgive me for not attaining those lofty heights. How I felt for so many years.

But you see I am broken, what a relief. I stand before you a shell of that shiny abomination. I don’t have to pretend any more. I reach inside to bring out my brokenness. I show you what I am. I lay myself open in front of you, and invite you to look.

You stare in recognition. You show me yours. They are not so different. I give my damage to you, and you to me. We stand there greater for it. I feel the peace finally seeping in.

Who knew, it is not the burnished armour that makes me strong, it is the damage inside.