Growing Up Tears

I thought when I was little adults did not cry.
“They are strong and brave and unafraid.”
Such I believed ’til my ninth birthday was nigh.

I awoke one morning with a pain in my chest.
“Best take you to the doctor,” Mother said.
Until she did, I knew she would not rest

The doctor poked and prodded, head to toe.
Then he turned to Mother, his voice somber
“Something’s askew, you need to know.”

Mom’s voice trembled as she said “tell me.”
“It’s his heart.  Surgery may be needed.”
There were tears in her eyes, hurtful to see.

“If it’s what I think it is, it’s a real concern.”
Mother’s face was ashen, wholly overtaken.
“Tests are needed, my findings to confirm.”

“Be in my office next Thursday at four,
in the meantime, give him plenty of rest.”
'Twas a week away for Mother to worry more.

Each night she came to me eyes all red
and with tears flowing, feared I’d die.
It was then that I knew there in my bed.
that adults do unavoidably, inevitably cry.

Copyright © | Year Posted 2020



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Date: 5/6/2020 8:40:00 AM
I disagree, your piece has poetic and artistic merit. Thanks again for your kind soupmails.
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Date: 5/4/2020 12:00:00 AM
G'day Paul … kids do tend to live in a magical paradise where everything is there provided by strong Mothers and Fathers who rarely show their emotions in front of their kids. A great message Paul - Lindsay
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Paul Schneiter
Date: 5/5/2020 10:20:00 PM
Thank you, Lindsay. What you say is true; I never had a clue as to what my parents were going through. I hope you're staying well and the virus leaves Down Under alone. Hugs, Paul
Date: 4/27/2020 12:25:00 AM
This is a sad one for mother and child. A shattering of the illusions that usher children through those early years of innocence.
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Paul Schneiter
Date: 4/27/2020 3:29:00 PM
Thank you, Richard. It's not very poetic, but I feel the message has merit. Losing one's innocence is, of course, a necessary part of the mortal experience, but it is tinged with sadness and an authentic sense of loss. All the best, Paul
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