A trust, a bond, now turned to dust, A darkened sky, a bitter gust. The heart, once open, warm, and free, Now wears a shell for all to see. A smile still there, but not the same, A flicker hides a burning flame. The laughter rings, a little frail, Behind it lies a mournful trail. Belief takes flight, it cannot land, Suspicion held within the hand. The world appears in shades of gray, Where shadows dance and softly sway. Forgiveness sought, a distant shore, The hurt remains, and aches some more. A cautious step, a guarded glance, A second chance, a slow advance. The self rebuilt, though scarred and worn, A lesson learned on a thorny thorn. Stronger perhaps, in some small way, But changed forever from that day.