You Silence Me

There is a way about you
that grips me by the throat,
ripping out every word before I can speak
and replacing it with a
choked up silence.

There is a kind smile you give me
that slides the gag between my lips
just as I manage to let out a mumble,
leaving just enough room for me
to breathe.

There is a warmth inside me
that suffocates my fluttering heart,
suppressing my desire to tell
you how much you mute me
with your compassion.