When a touch isn't just a touch

To some a touch is just a touch.
A shake of hands with a new acquaintance.
A hug between close friends.
A kiss shared with love.
Even the feeling of anothers hands on their bare hips. 

But to some a touch is remembering the slamming doors that left them shaking behind locked doors.
The overbearing screams of the ones whose voices used to carry comfort.
The bruises left scattered on their body from when their loved ones were "only playing around."
The cold hands wrapped around their neck.

To some a touch is like opening the door that they've bolted shut in their minds.
With each unprompted finger on their skin another lock breaks and falls to the floor with a sound that shakes them to their core.

So when you encounter a person who flinches at every accidental brush of someones knee against theirs;
Do not laugh.
Do not get angry.
I promise it isn't your fault.
But another lock just fell. 

Reviews

[littlekinglord]

Wow just wow, It hit me to my core i know exactly what this feels like if you read my about me page, you will know what I have been through. I think that it is true because if my friends mess around with me i flinch more than others would because of years of torment. thank you so much for writing a poem I can relate to.

[GreenShoes]

Wow, this is very real and disturbing. I'm so sorry if this is autobiographical. I hope things turn around.