Double-Edged Swords

Empathy is often seen as both a blessing and a curse.

Timid expressions of the softest emotion

Tethered hearts speak beyond commotion

Sharp concern slices into distant well being

Knowing the other deeper than they're seeing

Words tipped in subtle drips of stinging oils

Absence an abscess that burns and boils

Sheathed concern undrawn out of apathy

Stabbing deep in chest by lacking sympathy

Thrusts to the hilt take their weighted toll

Standing guard yet not taking to the role

Strait to the point but not holding the grip

Ignorance of the obvious living off the hip

Hand upon pommel but lacking the drive

Passing over others dreams with strive

Drawing only when you want of the hilt

Hoping  casual efforts will cause the tilt

So where are things now with arms bare

When one will still and the other to care

Slashing through without empathy guiding

Vigilance tainted and in danger of sliding

Reckless abandon of ones dutiful chores

Riposte of memory only bars said doors

Passing the blame with thoughtless parry

Dedication to ideas still seeming so scary

Taking from scabbard with loving grace

Drawing edge upon flesh leaves a trace

Edges of contempt and compassion equal

Dueling hearts ill-fated to woeful sequel