Underneath the scowl of contempt
lives the fear of an abandoned boy.
Far away from the sideways glance
there was once a welcoming soul.

Reach out to welcome the soul’s return…
…return the scowl with a smile,
receive the sideways glance without judgment.

Underneath the awkward small talk
hides an insecure teenaged girl.
Far away from the nervous giggle
there was once a blossoming spirit.

Reach out to raise up the spirit’s flight…
…return the small talk with interest,
receive the nervous giggle with acceptance.

Underneath your offense is hurt…
…far away is your innocence.
Underneath your discomfort is sorrow…
…far away is your cheerfulness.

Reach out to remember your innocence.
Reach out to return to your cheerfulness.