Don’t be afraid, of the you inside

Do not be afraid

of the you under the skin

like a solid orange

with a lava interior

You are not the labels you gave yourself

Someone made you anxious

Someone gave you fear

Someone gave you shame

These are not your labels, just layers

Do not be afraid

of the you under the skin

that hot fire

pure within

that’s you

You are not the labels that helped you cope

Survival by being helpful

Survival by hiding way

Gave you reason and hope

But dont be afraid of the you inside

and the treasure you are about to find.

(James Ballantyne, 2021)