I avoid looking people in the eye
for they may see too much
even with a quick glance

how can they see my thoughts and my past
piercing me, weighing me
in between blinks
eyes so close to the brain - close to what I think

I'll keep my eyes closed - hide within my thoughts
keep shame locked. eyelids: shutters
they block,
they block,
they block.

only a handful hold the keys to these gates
their gazes I enjoy, not merely bear
I'm wishing for strength, for will, for courage
to keep my eyes opened
and my soul out bare.