The 18 yr old boy

In a world of whispers and fleeting glances,

Lies a soul burdened by anxious dances.

An 18-year-old, fragile and shy,

With social anxiety, they wonder why.

Behind guarded walls, they often hide,

A tempest of thoughts swirling inside.

Every step forward feels like a test,

Heart pounding, a constant unrest.

In crowded rooms, they feel so small,

Overwhelmed by voices that fill the hall.

Eyes averted, they yearn to belong,

But fear's embrace feels ever strong.

Parties and gatherings become a maze,

Anxiety's grip, an intricate haze.

Words caught in their throat, unable to speak,

Invisible chains, making them weak.

Yet beneath the veil of their trembling guise,

A world of wonder and beauty lies.

For deep within, a fire burns bright,

A spirit longing to take flight.

They dream of friendships and laughter's embrace,

Of breaking free from their self-imposed space.

With each passing day, they gather strength,

Learning to conquer anxiety's length.

They find solace in books and art's embrace,

A sanctuary where their worries erase.

Through pen and brush, they express their soul,

A language where anxiety loses control.

They seek understanding from those who care,

A listening ear, someone willing to share.

For a kind word and gentle smile can heal,

The wounded heart, a chance to reveal.

In time, they'll find the courage to emerge,

To step into the world, their fears they'll purge.

For within them resides untapped might,

An 18-year-old, ready to take flight.

So let us embrace them with open hearts,

Provide support, where anxiety departs.

For they hold potential, shining bright,

An 18-year-old with dreams taking flight.