Predator by the bathroom wall

Mumbling vulgarities under his breath just loud enough so only I can hear them

 

To me, about me, not for me

Never for me

 

In a place I’m suppose to be safe

In a place I still consider safe

Thankful for open rooms and plentiful eyes

 

I dream of going to the bus stop on time and unafraid

No worrying if they’ll be waiting for me

No wondering if that’ll be the last, “No.” I ever say

I don’t want to keep practicing quick draws with my purse-size window breaker

Or make apothecary visits for back up plans

​

You may call me paranoid, or exaggerating

My counselor calls it hypervigilance

I call it just another Wednesday

 

Predator by the bathroom wall

Mumbling vulgarities under his breath just loud enough so only I can hear them

 

To me, about me, not for me

Never for me

 

In a place I’m suppose to be safe

In a place I still consider safe

Thankful for open rooms and plentiful eyes

 

Standing by a pretty tree trying to enjoy my toke, I am asked if I’d like some expletives

I think about how the stars would be so much prettier in peace

 

Peace…

 

How nice it would be for our bodies, our pieces, to not be up for debate

 

Is this stress too tight?

Does this target show too much?

Did I make eye contact, I hope not, I can’t run very well in these shoes

Why did I wear these shoes?

(Oh no, please don’t come closer—)

Help

 

Keep your whistles, save your bejeweled pepper spray and kitten knuckle keychains

If you want to help: step in, speak out, raise differently, educate, break cycles, have those uncomfortable conversations, VOTE

 

Predator by the bathroom wall

Electing vulgarities with his breadth, loud enough so everyone can hear him

​

To me (us), about me (us), not for me (us) Never for me (us)

 

In a place I’m suppose to be safe

In a place I still consider safe

 

​

 

- N24