The Scene, by Oonah V Joslin

I wish I knew how others get so high

on life – still buzzing from some social

event – looking forward to being in

the crowd – working the room with easy grace,

remembering people’s faces, people’s

names, taking pleasure in joining in their

games, laughter ringing high to the rafters.

Genuinely saying, Wasn’t that great!
..
I wish I didn’t know the crushing fear,

the hiding in the corner on my own,

the fervent wishing to be somewhere else

or anywhere but here and now and in

the company of those who get a buzz,

being with people they regard as friends.