Silent Struggle

I stand here in the midst of a crowd,

But I feel all alone, lost and un-proud.

My heart is heavy, and my mind in turmoil,

As I struggle to find the words to uncoil.

I long to share my deepest emotions,

To speak of my innermost notions,

But the fear of judgment and rejection,

Leaves me trapped in self-protection.

I see others laugh and have their fun,

But I feel like a shadow, a forgotten one,

I wish I could be brave and speak my mind,

But my fear is stronger, leaving me behind.

I want to share my dreams and hopes,

To untangle the knots of life's ropes,

But the fear of being seen as weak,

Keeps my lips sealed, making me meek.

Oh, how I wish I could break free,

And speak my truth for all to see,

But until then, I'll bear this weight alone,

Hoping one day, I'll find a way to atone.