I sit here, alone.
Surrounded by friends.
The warm, sweet tea runs down my throat and I listen...
Listen to their chatter
Listen to their noise
Listen to their cacophony

I sit here in the noise
I pray for peace and silence.
For someone to say "hello"
I pray for a bit of kindness.

I don't want attention
I don't need attention
I am content to be alone.
But to be alone when surrounded by others...
It is unbearable.

I'm nervous
I'm quiet.
I'm guarded.
I'm alone.