Look into my eyes,
the windows of my soul.
Gaze upon the darkness,
the emptiness and cold.

Will you stay a moment?
Gift the darkness light?
Look beyond my open wounds,
without adding to my strife?

Will you seek beyond my bitterness,
to the cause of my pain?
Patiently sow the seeds of trust,
light friendships flame?

Can you find compassion,
maybe aid this soul to mend?
Will you stay a moment,
and simply be my friend?

Authors Note: "...oh yes, the frightened first steps into recovery and emergence back into the world as a whole human being.  No longer denying that I have emotions and emotional needs, yet recognizing I am still fragile.  I am at least willing to share the totality of myself now.  This was a major accomplishment at the time.  I had been challenged to write something by a co-worker that had helped me through the rough spots and this was the result.  It was where my life was and the most honest plea for simple friendship I had ever made.  This work won an Honorable Mention as well as The Presidents Award for Literary Excellence when I entered it in competition.  It remains one of my most favorite works and hangs in my home still." ~E. "Shadow" Maddox

Who is Sue Maddox-Toth?
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