Do you ever cry for things long past?
For some things you miss,
And times that wouldn't last?
Do you ever wish for memories,
Those days of joy and bliss,
To return again with ease?
Do you ever weep for loved ones gone?
For words said in haste
That can't be withdrawn?
Do you ever hear their falling tears?
Flowing free and unrestrained,
Unfaded through all these years?
Do you ever seek forgiveness pure?
Having brought what they've faced
And been made to endure?
Do you ever wish to apologize?
Show love unfeigned?
And dry tear soaked eyes?
Do you feel that love inside you grow?
Wanting nothing more
Than to ensure they know?
And in joyous embrace felt through skin to the core,
See that love in THEIR face,
And NEW memories in store
©Neil F. 9-30-2013
I have 3 younger brothers, and I was cruel as 1st born; a horrible example of what the oldest should be, particularly to the youngest 2. I put this poem together over the course of a couple months, touching it here and there, when the pangs of guilt would wash over me. Memories of my hateful words and actions still bring me to tears sometimes, breaking my heart. And oh, how it must've hurt my parents to see their children treat each other that way. Now, in my late 20s, I can't help becoming emotional when attempting to speak on the love I feel for my family.