Words peck, like sharp beaks, through my thin skin. I feel each jab, each poke, all the while, pretending not to. I put on a brave face and continue what I was doing, and eventually, the pecking stops, and turns into a swirl of giggles and laughter. I join in. It is funny, actually. I breathe easily again, and reflect upon how sensitive I can be, at times.

This original painting is available through Galerie Lydia Monaro, in Montreal, Quebec (http://www.galerielydiamonaro.com/)