I Can Learn Without Voice
The clock ticks slowly,
Fingernails tap, impatient,
Tick clack tock click tick.
Eyelids droop, words blurred,
Droning voice fades to silence,
Still first period.
Teacher calls my name,
I am stunned, I cannot speak,
My hand was not raised.
She scoffs and disproves,
“Pay more attention next time,”
I learn in silence.
They don’t understand,
All my fears, anxieties,
My mind takes control.
When called on in class,
My hands start to shake, voice cracks,
I hate, hate, hate it.
It is not a choice.
Social anxiety, I
Can learn without voice.
Guide that inspired this poem: