I can’t erase this indelible need
to ask permission to be around.
Shy like a mouse scampering in
shadows without a sound,
the presence of authority figures
causes me to shrink and cower.
Retreating deep within myself –
recoiling from their imposing towers.
Unwilling to offend and
Eager to obey.
Constantly chiding myself for
allowing them so much sway.
Voluntarily drawing boundaries –
that exist only in my mind.
One-directional only, never asking for
Equal respect in kind.
Notes from a Book Nerd 