Eye Contact by Matthew A. Walton

Sometimes it is “Look me in the eyes when I am talking to you.” Other times it is “Are you scared of me?” or “Are you even listening?” These questions tend to lead me to give the same answer, eye contact makes me feel uncomfortable. Often people will let it go and move on, yet on occasion there will be that person who pushes further, telling me that it is disrespectful and that I need to get over it or that it does not make sense and I'm only making up excuses for my behavior. So for those people who fail to comprehend my dilemma, allow me to educate you in a way you can understand. For me, eye contact feels: 

Like a glob of moist phlegm dripping down my neck while a chunky roach with vicious jowls skitters up and down my spine. 

Like maggots festering in each of my orifices while my cheek secretes sticky discharge from a bulbous pustule. 

Like slurping curdled cottage cheese only for it to get clogged in my throat, forcing me to gurgle and vomit. 

If you found these images uncomfortable, then you may now understand how I feel when I look someone in the eyes. So the next time someone averts their gaze during conversation, think back on these words before passing judgment.