My Heart Is A Red Rose Poem by Maureen Carey

My heart is a red rose, delicate and fragile.

My center is tender and soft and hurts terribly when touched, so please approach me with care.

My edges are fragile, so if you decide to pick me someday, touch me with care and compassion.

My heart is so open to love, but someone loving me is a new experience, so treat me kindly.


I am vulnerable under your touch as you pick me up.

Go softly when you approach me and please remember my thorns.

They've developed after a lifetime of rejection, fear and judgment.

If I cut with you with my thorns and you begin to bleed, I apologize.
Learn where my pain lies so you can learn to avoid that spot as you pick me up, so it won't cause you pain as well.

If you should happen to pick me, tread lightly upon my heart. It's been bruised many a time.