A gurgle of laughter from a nearby child makes me turn,
and a boy bounces a ball down the driveway.
Sun beats warmth on my skin—
and the rays of happiness sting.

I stare at my feet when a neighbour passes.
Keep my head down, pretend I don’t see her.
I know she may mistake distance for unkindness.
But if I talk, tears may fall—
And I don’t have the words to explain it.

If I were a turtle, I could retreat into my shell.
Everyone would know, it’s just about protection.
And if someone knocked on my door?
I’d pull my house up and toddle along the shore.
When waves lapped at my feet, I’d swim far away into the sea.