An Intro to My Heart, a Preface not a Poem by Naomi Cohen

An Intro to My Heart - Wallpaper Stories Cover Art

When asked what I’m looking for in a man, a partner, a lifelong friend and lover – it’s hard for me to respond. Maybe I don’t know – but probably I do. Maybe my heart has been broken. Maybe I’m afraid of the truth. Maybe I don’t believe anymore- is he out there? Is he looking for me as much as I am looking for him? Has he given up hope as I have so many times before? Maybe he’s not out there.

But I want to believe that he is. I need to believe that he is. I HOPE he is because I have got to. I have to hold on to what I know in my heart to be true. Underneath all my layers of sarcasm, anger, and sadness. And if I am wrong - then I’ve been wrong all along. And NOTHING matters.

So, he needs to be honest. And he needs to listen. Really listen. Because I want - No, I NEED someone who can listen. Really listen. Really hear my truth. And it’s not easy. It’s tough. And it’s not pretty, or cute or funny. It’s scary. And I bottle it up. And hide it away. And I put my guard up – No, my ARMY up so I can’t be seen. So, I cannot be hurt. Because I’m so STRONG. Because I’m so scared. I’m afraid of what you will think of me when you finally really hear me, finally see me; honestly, truthfully, LOUD and clear.

                                    Will you still listen?

                                    Will you still be here?

Or will you too, disappear?