Lightning Rod

Alone it stands, 
charred, 
where it was kissed by lightning
as though the passion 
were too much to bear.

The tree stands testament
a stark reminder
of something held too long
when I should have let it go, 
and saved myself.

This tree is me,
carrying the scars, the burns,
for all to see,
wincing at kind words,
for fear of being burned again.

©️ Emma Steel