Shady People

They linger always on the edge,

With smiles that never quite align

Their words a well-rehearsed pledge,

But underneath,

a hidden sign.

They offer hands that promise gold,

A kindness that is thin as air,

Their eyes avert,

their stories old,

Yet still,

I trust aware,

aware.

They twist my faith,

rewrite my trust,

Like shadows sliding through the dawn,

They leave my loyalty in dust,

Then vanish long before I’m gone.

I give them chances,

one by one,

Believing once will prove me wrong

But every time,

when day is done,

I find I’ve let them tag along.

My open heart,

my hopeful glance,

They use them up and let them break,

Returning only when they chance

On something else that they can take.

Their laughter rings a hollow note,

A joke with edges worn and sly,

I wonder why I missed the rote

Excuses

every reason why.

Yet still,

I seem to play the part,

Inviting snakes into my days,

I keep forgiving,

though my heart

Knows every game these people play.

But one by one,

I learn the signs

A shifting glance,

a word too sweet,

And though my hope for good declines,

I won’t let bitterness defeat.

For every shadow that’s revealed,

I find my boundaries growing strong,

I guard my trust,

allow it healed,

And know at last where I belong.

So let them try their petty schemes,

I’ve seen enough to know the cost

I’ll fill my life with brighter dreams,

And mourn for all the trust I’ve lost.

Still,

in this tale of right and wrong,

I choose to keep my spirit true

And shady people,

all along,

Will never steal the best of you.