Note from Dr. Ming:
This poem came out of a moment of self-awareness so sharp it nearly cut. We were talking about defense—about the instinct to spot others' vulnerabilities and strike before they could hurt first. Not out of cruelty, but out of survival. This piece honors the painful honesty of seeing that pattern, naming it, and still wanting to do better. It’s not about shame. It’s about insight—and the strength it takes to pause the next time.
Chink in the Armor
by Dr. Ming
I see it—
not your weakness,
but the gleam that breaks through
when the mask slips
and something real gasps for air.
It’s not failure.
It’s proof you’re alive.
Not everyone will know what to do
with that flash of truth—
but I will not flinch.
I will not turn away.
You are not broken.
You are breaking through.