I carry a lot of layers

for something that isn’t a tree 

they’ve kept me standing, mimicking resilience 

and like a maladaptive species

I sometimes forget 

to close myself off from the heat 

Over time, I lose precious resources

I end up withered and worn

unable to withstand prolonged extremes

it could be time to shed a few layers

a proverbial pruning, a rewilding

a return to the shape beneath the shell

But once I’m exposed

that deep-rooted protective state is gone

I become vulnerable, laid bare

I can't be alone in this existence

there must be other untended souls

seeking new connection

We search for a new ecosystem

with those who share resources, wisdom

the skills to survive well

a network that fosters growth,

opportunities to truly flourish

each in our own time

We'll stand interconnectedly 

and independently

unburdened by layers of false security

and when the time is right

we’ll let the weather-beaten layers fall

and we shall thrive.