fragile

My heart jumps-
Skittering like a fallen leaf
Across the street.

It jumps and soars
On this windy day,
And I'm tossed and turned
In every way.

I hide my trembling hands
Under the table.
I'm not ready
For you to hold them.

You sit across from me,
And the ground splits
And shakes.

I'm terrified
And fragile-
Glass in an earthquake.

My heart crumbles
Like a fallen leaf,
Run over
In the middle of the street.

The wind is strong
And carries me away
In a million pieces-
I don't know what to say.

Please be gentle,
Listen to the ache-
Guide me across this street-
This pit in my stomach.

Take me to a place
Where I'm not afraid.
Take me to a place
Where I want this.

How I want to feel wanted-
Why don't I want this?