When I am in second grade I do not speak.
I have a personal vendetta against the spoken word.
But you tell me to speak up, to make friends.
It's harder than it looks.

I sit, unacknowledged in my corner, quiet.
The kids do not notice me. They think I'm not worth the effort.
I start to think the same.
Cycle, it's a cycle.

You are worthless.
I am worthless.
You are worthless!
I am worthless!

I stay in my corner, my years evaporating before they hit the ground
Speak up, you say. Project! Project!
Share with the class. Read it aloud. Stand at your desk.
This cannot change me.

I retreat to my corner. And there I stay, alone.