Lingering Embarrassment

In laughter, a slip—a moment too clear,

a spray of spit, how everyone leer.

Middle school days, they flash in my mind,

and the echoes of shame, forever entwined.

A friend shares a tale of humor unplanned,

my cheeks burn red at the flick of his hand.

How small things can haunt, linger, and grow,

a slip of the tongue can leave a deep glow.

We laugh at the past, but it sits like a stain,

these moments remind us, the heart knows the pain.