Sophie Helena Biervert, The Underneath

The Underneath

Sophie Helena Biervert

Underneath that scorching fire, Underneath that armor, Hidden behind that fiery frame,

Lies a tenderness.

A sweetness, A space so gentle, that swims in a well of tears. A pit of emotion, Birthing a heart that wants to open and awaken to the world, Love And wanting to be loved, A true giver. A delicate, precious thing, Hurt-but strong. Willing to love, And love, And love.

But what you see is her strut, The thunder of her voice, That blinding, flashing smile, The careless laugh, Overbold persona—

But if you just took time to listen, Or maybe, if you tried to really see,

You could look into her eyes and silence their glimmer. Maybe even catch a glimpse of that gentle spot that spends her time hiding, So timid, Playful and scared, Desperately trying to reach out, not screaming and dancing and confident like her lashes— Never as bold. If you look closely, you will find a hand . Small, loving and shy, Ready to be opened, Ready to be held.

Maybe if you truly heard her, And picked apart, The music of her voice, And listened to it,

The call of her heart: The plea to be seen, to be forgiven, to be freed from the hurt, saved from her own iron clasp.

Maybe then, you would understand her better.

Minmal Plant Bayan Assali