How can I tell you
What I want you to know?
You are cautious and guarded
Protecting what has already been hurt.

Glimpses of vibrant passion
 that once freely adorned your face.
Hidden from view
Scared to be open, all tender and raw
Sealed in by a scared shell.

Over time as we talk
Slowly
Cautiously 
Our defences come down
As trust is garnered
Your true beauty is shown.

The darkness and pain
Exposed to the light of 
Patient care and latent passion,
Begins to crumble. 
Peace instead of pain
Joy instead of judgement 
Hope instead of despair 

And in the womb
Love grows
Love is born
New life is found
Learning to walk
Learning to talk
Learning to be 
Learning to love