ARE YOU REALLY BETTER THAN ME?

© David Wainland 2008

You tell me to sit still when I cannot and sneer
at the noise my movements create.

Then you try to quiet me
because you think you can.

Are you judgmental or just rude?

How many times must I apologize
before that look of contempt leaves?

Yes, it is true.

Those who sit on their book of ethics
and demand me to follow their lead,
they intimidate me.

Don't you know that your words,
your looks, your attitude,
they leave creases on my soul.

I write this only
because it is an exercise
in dulling the edge of rejection.

I may have offered you my hand in friendship,
but I know you would not willingly relinquish
what you think of as,
"Your power."

Instead, I move through the room,
careful to avoid your eyes
and I wonder if I am doomed to find you
at every gathering of minds.

Stay, do not move,
and do not even think.
I cannot see you anymore.

Then my chair grates the floor
and I feel the burn of contempt.

Why are you everywhere I go?