Phoenix Rising

I am a Phoenix

My feathers keep me safe

A plumage of protection

Then memories unfold

My feathers fall to the ground

Exposing my skin, my soul

To the searing heat of pain and truth

Sometimes a memory strips all the feathers

And I burn in the fire of trauma.

Again

I have no choice but to stop.

Wait.

Regain my breath my strength.

Breathe each feather back into place.

Wait for my plumage of protection to regrow

Unfold my wings

Once more.

I am a Phoenix

Phoenix