Panic's Bite

It's that feeling
the one you may only know
from time to time,
a big test today,
a meeting with your boss,
a first date.
That little flutter in your stomach
perspiration on your brow
catch in your breath,
yes you know
nervousness.
but what you don't know
is his cousin, Panic
Panic has a bite to him
That sharp inhale
that stabs your lungs.
That sends your inside
into cartwheels
over and over and over.
And your heart wants to run away
as beats beats beats faster and faster
right out of your chest and into your ears.
and your palms are freezing
and wet.
And you can't seem to shake
the shakes that intrude your body.
You can't escape that deep desire
to run as fast as your feet will carry.
And you wait,
panic pins you down
and you wait
for the world to fall a part around you
but everyone's face is serene
because nothing is wrong.