Don’t offend

They extend their hands, their arms,

because it's normal.

Like I want to shake, to hug.

Like I don't mind being touched.

But I bear it, just don't offend.

They speak to fill the silence,

because thats what you do.

Like I know what to say.

Like I know how to say enough, not too much.

But I try to pretent, just don't offend.

They look you in the eyes,

because it's polite.

Like I could stand it.

Like I know how.

But I try, not to stare, not to avoid, not to offend.

They are everywhere, always, constant, never ending noise.

'Look at people when you talk to them.'

But I don't remember faces, because I can't bring myself to look.

'Talk to people, it's polite to engage.'

But I'm exausted.

I don't know what to say, how to react, what they expect of me.

I just want space when I need it.

I just want to be me without the dread,

to offend people that don't understand.