Slightest Kernel Poem by Uriah Hamilton

From what warfare of love have you retreated?
Down what street have you scattered yourself
seeking relief in anonymity and isolation?

I hope you lick your wounds in the sunlight
like a defeated dog from a severely threatening rival
to come back even stronger after your survival
to yet win the day for the territory of well-warranted dignity.

Do not be afraid of failure or disapproval:
the disapproving never loved you and never will;
the condemning and condescending
merely relish to gaze at a groveling soul.

The only inescapable ruin is losing self-respect,
the complete erosion of confidence and personal esteem.
If you can maintain the slightest kernel of inner faith,
then any arrow flung in jealousy or contempt will be deflected.