I often think about the tears

which flare behind my eyes.

Not for hurts, real or imagined,

but rather for  events in life which

happen as time sweeps by,

moments of emotion.

 

Since youth I have fought this sting,

fearing the scorn of other boys.

The sneers and taunts that rain

upon the sensitive,

the scalding shame of tears.

 

Why do joyous births of

unrelated children or the

untimely deaths of people,

cause such instant pain?

How can a puppy or kitten

touch our hearts or

blind our eyes, so easily?

 

Is there no defense,

no stiff upper lip response,

to cope with all this joy

or  indeed, sadness.

Is there something wrong –

with me, perhaps?

Or is there a deeper

understanding, not felt by all.

A detriment, no.

A privilege.

 
 

David Garlick, Sidney, January, 2008