Anxiety

Steps behind me increasing

In volume.

I can’t breathe; I’ve run for so long

Now

Do I feel it? A fingernail on my shoulder

As we sprint,

Has he almost caught up,

 

My legs are about to give.

My whole life, he’s been following me,

Chasing me, the promise is there

That this marathon has no finish.

His breath on my neck

Why didn’t I wear a collar?

His whispers bellowing

Why didn’t I bring ear plugs.

 

Sometimes I wonder what his face looks like.

My mom could tell you,

He’s shadowed me for ages.

My girlfriend knows his eye colors

Please.

Please make it stop. I’m exhausted.

Why must I be the one to face him.

Forgetting, denying,

Ignoring the inevitability,

Is so much easier.