In a room full of people, I stand alone

They talk and laugh, making it look so easy Small talk, fitting in, joining in with the crowd But it's all beyond my capabilities

I stand to the side, and try to disappear Wishing I were somewhere else, anywhere else Praying that no one will notice me, speak to me The walls are closing in, the people getting louder I feel myself shrinking, growing smaller and smaller The sweat runs in cold rivulets down my back I have to get out of this place, now

And only when I've left the gaiety behind To meld into the welcoming darkness outside Can I breathe again, can I relax, can I be me

Terri Lyn Stanfield

Reulyn@aol.com

2/5/2002