dentist ptsd

I ground myself
in the chair
pushing the thoughts
out of my mind
as best I can
knowing they’re forever
ingrained in my body
I shake
I cry
communication 
makes me feel safe
communication 
makes me laugh
I don’t always 
have to live
in the past
the present can 
be a little joyful
mostly bearable
a necessary
part of being human
taking care of 
my body knowing
the process will 
be uncomfortable.