I am a puzzle

A maelstrom of identities

To be flipped and sorted and examined

Five hundred, a thousand, and more hats to wear

In each moment

Some too proud

Others too timid

Few just right

But each eventually finds its place

Only to be determined

Through trial and good intent

The true work begins

As attention finally shifts

From border’s ego

To inner construct

A study of the map

Shows many paths

The illusion of the same conclusion

Causes some to falter

But unique experience builds the self

Puzzled life, puzzled journey

An endless endeavor

Scarred endurance

Salved with art