The Complications of Communications

In attempting to be seen and heard

We're getting tangled up in the words

Trying hard to bring us together

But inventing vocabularies that pull us further apart

It is safer to be silent that to speak.

It's not an attempt to hurt or shirk.

Simply words fail to come readily and confidently

Because each individual can write their own script

My stranger danger is not now about avoiding being hurt by someone I do not know,

Now it is fear of me hurting someone I do not know

Because I did not know how to acceptably speak to someone I do not know.

Is it okay to say "someone?"

It's confusing. I'm not being snarky and snide.

I'm fearful and twisted up inside.

I already have strikes against me.

I'm old. So I learned a less complex way to address others.

Now, I simply don't know what to say.

Ask I'm told, if I don't know.

But when is the time to be so bold?

Some say it's rude to ask.

Others say it's rude not to.

I'm so confused.

My mind is bruised.

So, I'll go first:

I'm she, her, hers, herself

And I'm very pleased to meet you.