Some people are walking around this world raw,
So be careful when you are near them
They lie open, torn by some other man’s maw.
Take heed of their hurt, try to hear them.
They sting at the true, gentle touch of a friend,
Your bright smile burns them like flame.
They are walking wounded, who cannot defend,
They are vulnerable and in pain.
So please, friend, be kind, and try to understand,
Their cruelty is born of their grief.
Their story goes deeper than ever they planned…
And your love could be their relief.

– s. Clark