A childhood favorite becomes
something with
an entirely different
meaning.

      (count to 10
         then try to find me)

Today, yesterday
tomorrow
it has become
a game for one.

      (8...9...10! Ready or not,
          not one is coming.)

Nobody gets close
in this solitary
game.

Feelings and thoughts
are well disguised,
only slightly revealed
through cracks in the wall.

      (Where are you?
          Where did you go?)

Sequestered by failings,
inadequacy paints a veneer of
confidence
self esteem
vibrancy.

None of it exists.

      (Are you still playing?)

This childhood game
is renamed, redefined.
For if anybody seeks,
I shall remain
hidden.