Tears flow from a plentiful stream
Sad stories shared
Eyes overflow
Precious moments inspiring hope
Cheeks are the backdrop of cascades
Loss, and loss, and more loss
It isn't mine.
I am an outsider looking in
Pierced by the worlds pain
I look to my blessings
My soul shifts with relief
Wells that hold gratitude
Fill to overflowing
I count my blessings
Wife, son, daughter, son
Health, wife, son, daughter, son
Mother and father figures, wife, son, daughter, son
My people
Who hold me up when I stumble
Who hold me in high esteem because I am me
Who see me
All that I am and am not
And still wrap arms around me
Accept this weeping figure
Heart of sponge
Soaking up your hurt, his hurt, their hurt
Lifting a chin to bring eyes to eyes
I see you
I see your path
Look and you will see
It is yours, all yours
And it is plentiful
A solitary tear
Droplet of joy leaving me
Touching you
Landing on your skin
Sparking acknowledgement
It is mine, all mine
And I have earned it