paper and paint

I am tongue-tide
My thoughts are screaming aloud, but no sound.
Emotions well up in my chest fighting to suppress the lump of silence in my throat.
My cup of coffee no longer warms my hands, but feels bitter.
Looking from within my soul I see the unspoken request, inquiries, desires, fears, laughter.
I notice your sideways smile, your subtle glance in my direction.
Catching your eyes linger with my own; communicating without words.
Yearning to speak, pry into my soul. Pour out the fear and hesitation along with my cold cup of coffee.
Turn me inside out. Fill my empty mouth with your conversation.
My lips burn for yours, though they melt when I’m with you.
Hanging on your every word. Listening, anticipating, concentrating on the shift of your smile.
Words drip from your lips like honey. I can taste them.
I cowardly stutter in your presence. Why do I feel this way?
Don’t speak. Tell me through your eyes, through your sideways smile, through your reserved touch.
Can I feel your meaning? Where are you coming from?
Sit down with me. Don’t go anywhere. Stay here.
Warm your hands around my cup of coffee.
Talk to me. Talk with me.

SR (2000)