Alone

So many people I know are afraid of loneliness

that they lose themselves in others entirely

*

Maybe it's because I've been on my own most my life

that within my solitude I find stability and peace

*

I'm more afraid of being surrounded by crooked smiles

a crowd of pretenders

pretending to care for me

While feeling completely isolated

from any authentic connection

with people who are as fake as robotic Barbies

*

Sometimes when I tell people

I go to dinner, shows, and hikes on my own

they marvel in my independence

Afterward I shrug

because it doesn't seem like a huge accomplishment

to just live my life with myself

*

Don't get me wrong

I love when I can truly connect with someone

intimately sharing a real feeling of presence

*

I just feel that it's normal to do what I want

alone or with someone

regardless of what anyone one else thinks of me

*

Yeah often I walk alone

but I have yet to be lonely

like most who surround themselves with people