Skin Poem by Glen Martin Fitch

So soft, forgiving
is a new born's skin.
Through time
so little trace remains
of bites and scratches,
cuts and scrapes
of playground fights.
From birth the sharp assaults
on us begin.
But as we age
some signs remain of past abuses.
Pox or acne pits may show.
Incision welts don't fade
and wrinkles grow.
Black veins and calluses
and age spots last.
Consuming
is the Newly-wed's fresh bond.
So much forgiven
by a sigh or kiss.
But silence, pouting, grudges
puncture bliss.
Attacks soon leave each
feeling bitter, conned.
Resilience wanes
as angry lovers spar.
Cruel teasing wounds,
sarcastic insults scar.