i will protect you

(07/07/22)

i deliver bulletproof-vest-padded hugs ,

and speak shock-blanket-covered words,

handing out a life's worth of help lines and safety

centers that i myself cannot access.

i stand, knight in shining armor,

awaiting a command.

listen for my cue,

pretending to save you

from feats you have already conquered.

you have no need for what i offer,

and yet you bestow upon me

the illusion of my deluded assistance.