A Tinge of Dread

Whatever you anticipate Contains a tinge of dread. It’s better to acknowledge it And hope it doesn’t spread. If you prefer pretending, Looking only at the good, You’ll be shocked when you discover How much you’ve misunderstood. Though they talk of silver linings, To an optimist’s delight, We who recognize disasters Know that’s only partly right. For no matter the occasion, Even those imbued with joy, There is doubt or grief or anguish Which the fates may yet employ. With experience behind me, There’s a lesson I have learned: It’s the pessimist who’s powerful, Preparing to get burned.