A Possible Series of Riddles #7 (Expert)

I can enter perception like a breeze hits the face,

Or I can be a brick that brings you to disgrace.

On breathy words I can sail to my place,

And my differences are apparent even in taste.

You can march to war upon my strong back,

Perhaps I'm weak like a wet paper sack.

Presenting me for some could be a knack,

Swaying masses with me will catch you some flack.

You could be the one who from me runs away,

Or you could be the slave who decides to stay.

Will you abstain or join my fray?

Immerse or don't, I'm there either way.

I can be the creator of that which is not real,

I could be your sword in lieu of steel.

I have many layers, like an onion I peel,

Some go fishing for me and when I bite they'll reel.

Proof is not needed for me to be,

Perhaps I'm a veil not letting you see?

I may provide a source for endless glee,

Just realize I will always be me.

What you see as a lie I can make true,

Lead you astray when you know what to do.

Rigidity keeps me stuck like glue,

The way I change is all up to you!

When I form I tend to remain,

By my principles many have been slain.

I create and wash away pain,

And sometimes I put the in- to sane!

I can only evolve but never be erased,

Perhaps my lineage is easy to trace.

I can wear many a different face,

But in your mind I always have a place.

I'm going to be going outside here with my son soon, play in his sprinkler toy in the backyard and work on my tan which is coming on splendidly. Figured I would bust out a little riddle here before I did so, however, and I hope this one presents at least a little bit of a challenge. Someone will probably get it right away, but if not then I hope everyone takes a shot or six at solving it!

Good luck, everyone, and hope you all are having wonderful, safe lock downs!