Forgive me if I whisper -
I find it hard to speak these thoughts aloud.
I am frightened - my voice would tremble,
and then break.

(The tears are veiled in the quiet of a whisper)

If the volume rises, the panic increases -
the barriers I have formed
may crumble into so much sand
at my feet.

I would begin to sob, then scream.

My screams would turn into
mournful wails that may never stop.

(I can’t lose control)
I can’t speak aloud my greatest fear
realised.

So, forgive my whispers.
(They protect me from the
inevitable)

01/21/2005

Author's Note: With thanks to Stephan, for the edit suggestions.

Posted on 01/21/2005
Copyright © 2024 Heide McAlister-Bates