Crumbling Down

My head tells me to push you away,
While my heart tells me to hold you
close and never let go.

Many years I spent building
walls around my heart
Meant to shield me from pain
but they also kept me from knowing love.

Yet in the short time I've known you
they have begun to fall
Each word, touch, or glance from you
Sends another crumbling down.

Mary E. Terrell
February 7, 1998