everyone

panic
restless paranoia
like a wild deer lost in the city

flight, I say, flight

running, always running
knowing it's not what I really need
knowing it's not fast enough
knowing I'll always see my refection anywhere I go

shallow breath lending an ear
but I am left more scared than ever
I am left with self
feeling egocentric for thought spent on perfection

label me
hurl your expectations on me
pretend you know what I need
go ahead, tell me you know me

Perhaps then, I shall get it right
Perhaps then, I will be good enough
Perhaps then, I will fit in
Perhaps then, I will be loved

running, always running

trying so hard to please
everyone.

-give me-

burning candle in my stale room,

next to the cactus in a coffee mug.

light from behind

projects through my mind.

give me clarity

give me peace

scattered papers atop my glossy desk,

clutter staining every other surface.

there is a light behind me

I feel its warmth.

give me clarity

give me peace

my paints and clay in locations of ease,

maybe I’ll use them today.

the light behind me

wells a tear in my eye.

give me clarity

give me peace

frameless photos of people I love so dear,

expired legal cards waiting near the trash.

the light won’t touch me

or my shadow.

give me clarity

give me peace

friendly letters to respond to,

they've been waiting longer than a month.

the light-

-

give me clarity

give me peace






-Sarah Bachtel-