There are times when we are struggling and feel broken. I have had to learn not to let the feeling of brokenness define me or defeat me, but I did want to acknowledge the feeling that arises at times. It’s a powerful emotion that can lie to us and make us feel so unworthy. It is also a tool others try to use against us. People sometimes use their words or their privilege to label us as broken or unworthy, to isolate us or justify their own actions against us. I do strongly believe that self-examination is important so that we can grow—so that we can move away from habits that hinder our growth—so that we can mature and gain wisdom. I am a lifelong learner who has apologized for actions taken when I didn’t know better. I have acknowledged that I have a lot to learn in life still. I listen more and love more. I will not, however, let anyone including myself ever make me feel unworthy.

Feeling Broken

You were ‘precious one’

until you fell

because they say

you cannot be

precious and learning

precious and falling

and having to get back up

and precious and getting

life wrong again and again

and having to say I’m sorry

so many times

that the tears choke out

your words and

break your heart

because you

see your mistakes

piled so high

that they cover

the good you

had in your heart

every time

you got knocked down

and have to get back up

and back up

and back up

until people

forget to see the strength

in rising

and the hope in learning

and the courage in facing

your mistakes

and no matter how many times

you learn

and get back up

and say you’re sorry

and feel shame burning

through your soul

you will always

know the words

Precious One

were never really

meant for you

and you cry

alone

and never let

them see your tears

and never let

your brokenness show

again

knowing

you felt too broken

to fix

and too broken

to love

—Chris Pepple ©2024