Armored Shadow

by Lulu

My shadow wears hardened armor,

Calloused by endless struggles,

Image credit: Anastasiya Badun on Unsplash

Concealing her identity from all,

Vigilant against the next threat.

But once the armor falls away,

A little girl stands in its place,

Her shoes too big,

Forced to grow up too soon.

She longs to express herself,

Yet mirrors worldly standards,

Acting wise and composed,

Feeling inadequate,

Drowning in the weight of expectations.

A spark still flickers beneath,

Hoping to break free,

To shed the armor and reveal her true self.

***

Lulu

Lulu is a high school poet whose work has been recognized with a Gold Key in the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards and an American Voices nomination. She is a proud member of the Native American community, and her intercultural roots often influence her poetry. Outside of writing, she enjoys studying languages and spending time with her family.