The Right Word

I already feel vulnerable as I sit down to write this

I have difficulty finding the right word that fits

What I am trying to communicate, often this happens mid-sentence

I just trail off, hoping the other person would get the essence

Of what I am saying or complete the sentence for me

I am concerned this is happening with increasing frequency

*

I used to think of myself as fairly articulate

Was it a misconception or did my ability dissipate

Is this a manifestation of increasing age

Or is it due to conducting life in my second language

Does my inner critic make me forget words mid-sentence

Whatever the reason, it causes me distress intense

*

Before I speak, I must pause and formulate

A complete sentence in my head, so that I remain articulate

I must not let my confidence run low

Even when the right words I do not know