Outsider

You smile at me and I try to smile back.
But my face is a wall that does not move.
I go to tell you how much you mean to me.
But the words freeze on my tongue.
And I can say no more.

You greet me and I stumble in my reply.
Feeling foolish, but not knowing what to do.
I reach for words that vanish.
They were here just a moment ago.
Where have they gone?

You try to put me at ease.
But small talk is not my thing.
I love to chat with you.
But I know not what to say.

You're like a friend to me.
I would like to be there for you.
But I know I seem strange.
And you probably wonder if I'm all here.
You're not the only one.

I think you're wonderful.
Because you are, you know.
But it's difficult to tell you.
I can do anything with words but say them.

One day I'll learn how to smile and say hello.
And dance and say small talk and be all here.
You're more of a help than you know.
Since I watch what you do.
Yes, I do.

Just keep being yourself.


Morris Cox
April 21, 1998