The Soft Warrior 

You see me standing

before you and

all you see is

softness.

You think my softness

makes me weak

and easy to

control.

Yes, I wear my

heart on my sleeve.

You tell me to

harden my heart.

I tried to harden

my heart.

It felt like toxins

moving through

my body.

So I softened

my heart back.

You say that the

softness in my

eyes and my

face

is weakness.

And that wearing my

heart on my sleeve

is weakness.

I am stronger than

you’ll ever

understand.

And just maybe

my softness is

meant to help soften 

your heart.  

July 26, 2026

Shannon Scoates is a Canadian poet and intuitive writer whose work is rooted in nature, mysticism, and channeled guidance. Influenced by childhood storytellers like Hans Christian Andersen and the Brothers Grimm, as well as poets such as Emily Dickinson, Maya Angelou, E.E. Cummings, W.B. Yeats, Robert Frost, and RR Token author Terry Brooks, she began writing at age ten as a way to express emotion and truth. Shannon is also an energy healer trained in Reiki, colour, sound, and vibrational therapy, and she is passionate about helping women find their voice through writing and spiritual connection. A devoted advocate for children’s literature and animal rights, she carries forward the encouragement of her Grampa and Grama, whose spirit continues to guide her creative path. Her first book is currently in development.