Raising a hand

When I sit in class, my thoughts are free and ever focused 

On the words

That explain the workings of life

Chemistry class

"What is the universal solvent?"

Water, my mind says

But my hand,

My hand refuses to listen

A paperweight of self doubt anchors it,

It's better to stay grounded than dare 

Risk failure 

A hand confidently rises from the person in front of me

They give the correct answer--water

My cheeks warm up in frustration

"What is the formula for glucose?

My hand twitches and my nerves move like marbles dropped on the floor

A sweaty hand rises above all others

"C6H12O6," I replied.

It was my hand

"Correct," my teacher says, and he continues the lecture.

I looked at my hand, and felt a new sense of reassurance

I sat in class, my thoughts are free and ever focused 

On the words

That explain the workings of life