Why do I feel that reaching out is begging for your attention?
Why do I feel like a burden just to start a conversation?

Yet I still send texts,
I still say hi.
I still visit when I know you're nearby.

Maybe you are bothered.
Maybe I'm missing the hints.
Maybe if I left you alone, I wouldn't even be missed.

So maybe I should give up.
Stop reaching out.
Stop looking for feelings that will never amount.

I wish I could go; I wish I could leave,
But without your approval, I'm left to bleed.

September 12th, 2023