not every smile is a show of strength

nor every tear a fear

not every taunt a tease

not every jibe a pierce

what comes across is not what it is

not always

like eyes that twinkle tearing within

like hands that reach to push, to pull ?

like thorns that prick to heal

like a friend who loves to hate

like knowledge  and powerlessness

like action upon action  and inaction

like waters that burn, crying for help

like grounds that swell of reek and smell

like degree upon degree and a certain ignorance

like bedraggling life

drying you in memories of pain

on the clothesline of living

to give.to give. to give.