Losing Sleep Poem by Kendall Todd

Don't:
Say anything
that could give him any idea
of what your eyes really mean.

Don't:
Say anything
he can pocket and take out again later
for further amusement.

Don't:
Let his voice deter you -
say nothing
about how you only stare this way at him.

Never:
However lonely,
sad,
upset
or angry you are or may feel,
say: Stay.

He might burst this swelling balloon.
He might go,
saying 'No.'

Do you misinterpret his tone?

Burn Harder Heart.
Slow Down Head.
Don't Wince.
Don't Turn Away.

(Jan 2006, Matarangi)