Anxiety

Without hesitation, he attacks me. I worry every day, every moment, If he will strike again. Living in fear is no way to be, yet I must say to myself constantly: Breathe. Nothing can hurt me. I prepare myself everyday Before going out Confident he will stay away, But I know of his relentlessness. So I must say to myself not once, but more: Breathe. Nothing can hurt me. An incident occurs: a simple, clumsy mistake, And a crowd has grown near. Feeling all eyes burning into me, Embarrassment takes its toll. Without a glance I know he’s there - creeping behind. Still through this I manage to say: Breathe. Nothing can hurt me. I panic, knowing what’s to come. I’ve encountered him before, Yet I still don’t know what needs to be done. My heart races, sweat trickles down my face. A heat arises so strong it’s suffocating. He closes in the walls on me. I don’t know why, I don’t know how, I thought I would feel no fear tonight. But as always, he comes as a surprise. And I say: Breathe. Nothing can hurt me. He grips my throat mercilessly. My lips quiver - I try to break free. Weak screams manage to escape, Not from fear, but shame. All eyes still on me, I gather the strength To finally break free. My face, red from his attack, doesn’t cool. His grasp upon my neck never loosens. I run ashamedly through the crowd and retreat To the confines of my home To regain the breath he stole from me. I assure myself once more: Breathe. Nothing can hurt me.