Follow the Laughter

This should be a sad place
There are no playgrounds, schools
One tap for an intire village

Their toys are rocks and sticks
There is a skinny goat running beside them
I hear laughter such sweet laughter
running jumping squeals of delight
bright smiles beaming
So much unadulterated joy
chasing shadows on dusty ground
The slapping of bare feet
No Nike's or Air Jordans to aid their flight
Happiness in a place where none should exist

This should be a happy place
Playgrounds, schools
A bathroom for almost every room in the house
No need to share more than enough

Toys, computers, smartphones
Lonely dog sits in corner chewing his bone
Children texting
Tired from all their programs
What if they don't get into the right schools?
Futures planned
Present planned to the last remaining second
Fast tracked to depression
Don't dissapoint Mom and Dad
Best coaches, best teachers, best clothes
Anything they desire
Listen, listen
Where is the laughter
Who else is part of their tribe
who cares if you live or die 
Sadness in a place where none should exist
We think we are the fortunate ones
Still where is the laughter beyond the painted smiles
Copyright © | Year Posted 2012

Poem

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Nance Avatar
July 27, 2014 at 3:24 PM
It is true, you can't buy laughter and joy, it comes from the person, not the social status. well thought comparison poetry Richard, I love how your mind sees so many different perspectives it's inspiring
Lamoureux Avatar
July 27, 2014 at 8:26 PM
Thanks again Casarah, it seems we have that quality in common.
Kovrlija Avatar
November 11, 2012 at 10:18 AM
a beautiful poem
Lamoureux Avatar
November 11, 2012 at 11:04 AM
Thanks Vesna
Tsiluma Avatar
November 10, 2012 at 11:35 PM
Whoa Richard! The start of your poem is a reflection of many places where I live. "Sadness is a place where none should exist" - that should be the world's motto. ps, thanks for your comments on my 'rant', you made me smile.
Lamoureux Avatar
November 11, 2012 at 8:30 AM
You didn't comment on my spelling mistake???
Lamoureux Avatar
November 11, 2012 at 8:05 AM
Glad I could make you smile. Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts, I look forward to learning more from you and about you.
A   Avatar
November 10, 2012 at 5:17 PM
Richard, I'm not a sadness monster.. I'm one who follows laughter,, even at my age.. Sometimes having everything does not cut it... love the ending thought..always~ pd
Lamoureux Avatar
November 10, 2012 at 5:21 PM
I would never think that about you, I can only see light when it comes to your spirit lovely Linda.
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