Adult Warded

Dark corners, beige walls. Scribbles telling you to "Beware, Be Aware." The shadows pass and a woman croons. "Let me buy my milk, 2 percent." Laugh it off, "Get some rest." Deep emotions for a "child". "You're an adult now." Welcome to the crowd. This isn't my place, I thought. Still just a "child". Denial runs amuck. "I'm fine. I'm great. I think it's time for me to leave this place." Persuasive language takes its toll. "That's fine! That's great!" I'm finally back at home plate. But then the voices come. Loud and fierce. Shades of red and a glare that pierce. A conscious takes it leave. Back to the dark corners and unwelcome friends. That one soggy puzzle piece, too warped to fit in. The lamp that only flickers off. A friend who couldn't be a friend from the start. And it's clear once again. That I am lost. So I checked back in to those dark corners and beige walls. "Let me buy my milk, 2 percent" I'm an adult now, I think I'll get some rest.