Steal Everything

I can be found

where the burglar

and copy cat break bread.

I can be found

ducking

once the plates are thrown,

where flinching

is a personality trait

and not a reaction.

Each measure of

protection

is not enough,

and houses are not homes

when you don't feel safe.

"But if you value safety

so much

you will close everyone off,"

he said.

"No one believes you."

The sun warms the kitchen--

the knives, all glittering

in the sink.

Compassion is competitive

and everyone just talks 

about themselves.

The burglar and the copy cat

steal everything I love.

Steal everything

until I am a shell 

and not a muse.