I’ve worn my pride like iron skin
A voice that sneers, Don’t let them in.
It lifts me up, but just to fall
A wall that isn’t strength at all.

Too often, tired and worn with care
I strike with words too sharp to bear.
A knee-jerk bite, a fleeting flame
That leaves me staring at my shame.

I’ve called myself the better man
For walking straighter where I can.
But even truth, when clenched too tight
Can turn my mercy into spite.

And though I judge myself the most
My failures cling, a haunting ghost.
Yet decent hearts are not defined
By battles won, but love aligned.

So may this pride be taught to bend
To break its edge, to seek its end.
For if I stand in pride’s harsh way
I waste the grace I need today.