I grew up with a specter in my mind’s eye

In the periphery

Always watching what I’d do

Or I would perform to see how it pleased

When you grow up with such a mindset

When an outer self or clearing house has been your constant companion

Social media is not your friend

You simply replace the phantom ‘they’ that’s been haunting you

with an all-seeing public eye you look to for approval

Look inward and start there