Alone

 
Being alone with your thoughts
is a dangerous thing;
at first they behave,
offering up fantasies
and memories pleasing to relive,
all the while looking about
to make sure they wont be interrupted.

They test gently at first
with whispered doubts,
a twist of fantasy,
softly nudging but ready to pull back
with a cruel laugh
and innocent smile
should they be stopped in the act.

It's when they discover solitude
that they truly come out to play,
the memories darkening,
the fantasies involuntary,
fears and insecurities
put on display in blinding shame
and leaving all else in shadow.

Relentlessly they drain you
of all your gathered joy
and every ounce of confidence
reminding you of the truth
of their falsehood and fragility,
until all you can think of
is escape.