Linguistic Landmine

Why is there a sharp edge, today? A proceed-with-caution edge Even when topics are Cearly filtered for Sure avoidance of the trip wires? Why does there exist a Threat of imminent anger, An emotional bomb Even in the midst of Innocent conversation? Why do I feel the negative Oppression following a chat That should be light, ordinary, loving? How is this so? I hang up quickly Following a lightly spoken “Gotta get back to my cooking. Love you.” I hear irritation in my daughter’s voice, Almost as if the mere sound of My voice is a source of tension, Irritation from my vocal chords To her ears, And when I hear the edge in Her voice, it causes a negative Reaction in me. The offending vocal cords Form a lump and suddenly I need to cry. ~ Judy Bausch