It burns

It stings

It stabs me in the heart

I wish I could control it

I wish I'd understand why

The pain of quiet

The ache of introversion

Why was I born this way?

Why can't I speak freely?

Why can't I be confident?

I'm afraid

Maybe I sound weird,

Or my voice will crack

My throat will grow dry

And my lips will trip

I'll stutter

I'm a burden

Subconsciously

Pity

Pity is not what I want

I need confidence

I need support

I need reassurance

I am lost

Afraid

Urging myself to "go for it"

But I can't

Because that is what I have believed

Years upon years, why won't it leave?

I want to say something, to go forward

But I can't

Because that is who I am

And I am not aware

Not aware of how to change it

Please do not worry

Do not go out of your way

Leave me to myself

My quiet

Shy

Introverted

Helpless self

Continue walking