Overload

My mind is trying to process every sense at once and trying not to pick them apart like lifting every voice from each conversation buzzing in my ears like gnats wings. Each footstep echoes in my mind like an avalanche only I can hear.

I can still taste the salt of the chips I hurriedly ate to satiate my hunger, and it’s only making me overwhelmed. Overloaded by all the things.

I’m nauseated now and the smell of the different restaurants are all grappling for dominance in ny nostrils. My brain is processing every single spice from the curry place and yet somehow soothed by basil and mint from the pho place. I’ll grip tightly to the momentary comfort it brings.

I hum to relax my body, to stim in a way that isn’t as obvious or easy to perceive. The vibrations of my vocal cords soothe my body as well as stimulate my soul. I am too shy to belt it out, but even with a hum, my spirit sings.

I pause to run my fingertips over the soft plush of the stuffed animal tucked under my arm for comfort. I take in every fiber in the grooves of my fingerprints and breathe deeply with the sensation. Touch reminds me I am still here, still present, still safe.