Shyness

I'm young with no identity, A faceless boy, alone and shy. To classmates, a nonentity; My parents fret and wonder why. I'm part of the unnoticed pack. I step aside as others pass. To be alone, I sit in back And never volunteer in class. I cannot dance or speak on stage And hate to pose for photographs. From social scenes I disengage Avoiding bullies' taunts and laughs. Uncaring, they my spirit crush. At lunch I have no company. I shrink from hugs and tend to blush And dirty jokes embarrass me. I dread the days we swim at school And shower with the other boys. I try, but nothing 'bout me's cool. I lack both confidence and poise. I'm frightened by the internet Where vicious rumors often spread. There mockery's a constant threat While thoughts of vengeance fill my head. The girls and jocks just walk on by. They're unaware that I exist. No welcome waves or friendly "Hi." I'm seventeen and not been kissed. The popular comprise a clique Where bolder boys have fun and flirt. Among my peers, I'm seen as weak, And girls avoid an introvert. The meek inherit all the earth. That's what the Bible verse asserts. But while alive, we've little worth. We're targets for disdain and hurts. Tomorrow's graduation day. This high school torment will have passed. When college life gets under way, I hope for friends and peace at last.