When I finally walk away
I will shed it all like scales,
One at a time.
As I reach the door
I’ll be light enough to fly into the
rest of my life, free at last.
Meanwhile, the scales will be gathered up
By the next unwitting victim
Who will gratefully wear them
As a protective suit of armor
Until  she realizes they’re actually an anchor
That holds her in place as she’s slowly pulled under.

 —Donna Frahmann

photo credit: Creativity+ Timothy K Hamilton via photopin cc