[ CW ] Start writing a story with these words : `` At first it was shocking , but then it became normal . ''

At first it was shocking, but then it became normal. 
 
 The thought written upon a line; an opened door that persisted in its stubbornness. 
 
 It became an elusive dream that did not fall asleep even as I awoke. 
 
 At first I thought I needed to see a doctor. 
 
 Itching from the whispers in my mind. Straining from an impression that would not congeal. 
 
 But then how could one find relief in another who is merely gifted in the misfortune of many. 
 
 The drifting whispers from passing strangers. Crawling shadows just out of sight but not quite out of reach. 
 
 Oh, no longer an evasive thing but now a persuasive thunder. Louder, *louder*, **louder**, ***louder***. 
 
 Echo, echo, echo. Refusing to be unheard or diminished. 
 
 At first it was shocking, but then it became normal. 
 
 Suffocating! Why did I think it was suffocating? 
 
 It was not that it wished to smother me. It was simply because I could not breathe. 
 
 How silly of me! 
 
 But I worry not, for I can feel myself changing. The words they twist and pierce. Flesh from rumination. 
 
 A thumping tear. A gnawing crunch. Ah! The ignorance sloughs off. 
 

