raising my hand to ask

The threat of social rejection

Won’t defer me from asking questions

That’s your shame spiral, not mine,

I’m brave enough to look weak now

Because when I’m in the know later

You’ll still be hiding your ignorance

They’ve tamed you into silence

To be obedient and agreeable

While I’m searching for honest

You get the reward from group think

Of not being ostracized for asking

I get the discomfort of intelligence

In the end you’re more acceptable

I’m seen as a loser and identify as loner

Because I can’t keep mouth shut.

Elizebeth Turnquist