The Difference Is...

Touch-
You'd touch me
and my mind would be
set in a panic.
Everywhere I'd feel your hand,
my self-esteem
like a small, quivering flame
on an almost burned out wick- would plumet.
I'd shrink away,
try desperately to minimize myself,
terrified of what you might think.

Touch-
when he touches me,
my mind is free from any worry.
All I feel is heat from the flames
coming from his hands
anywhere they rest on my body.
My self-esteem-
quivering excitedly whenever he speaks
my name.
He draws me closer
and I feel safe and I will him to hold on to me longer.
I no longer need be so afraid, with him whole I am made.