Jeanie Bennett Poet Rhyme

Smile

Why aren't you smiling back at me
I'm having a great day, don't you see
Why aren't people friendly anymore
Common courtesy has gone out the door
Kids off to school without any trouble
Kisses and hugs then rush to work
On the double 
Job duties completed right on time
Run to grocery store, can't get behind
Pick up kids and all will be fine 

I see a familiar face I hadn't seen in a while
She glances at me but there is no smile
She kinda just looked right through me
I don't get it, can't we all just be friendly
How hard is it to crack a small smile
Common courtesy is gone, no denial

Delicious supper shared with family
Spouse shares sad news he heard today
The woman I just saw in the store
Lost husband suddenly the week before
She was diagnosed with cancer, stage four
And will only survive a few months more
The cancer has spread despite all the chemo
No family for support and to lean on
Now her sole support in her life is gone
She probably won't survive very long

I am not smiling when I hear this news
Nor smiling but now changing my views
Not smiling when drop kids off at school
Can't smile at work, I feel such a fool
Coworkers ask why aren't you smiling
Smiling has taken on a new meaning
It's not as spontaneous as was before
I don't smile as much as I use to
Looking at sullen, smile less faces 
What caused happiness to be erased
Death and disease and family stresses
Abuse and loss and money messes
Maybe my smile will bring you comfort
And if you don't smile back, I will hope 
And pray you have a reason to smile again
Someday..........

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Cheryl Hoffman February 10, 2017 at 7:49 AM Heart touching Jeanie; another write I can relate to as to why people don't smile very often these days! Reminds me of that song; smile though your heart is breaking…you'll see the sun come shining through…if you'll just smile…~Che :) Jeanie Bennett February 10, 2017 at 7:55 AM Yes !! Thank you so much Che !! I'm smiling !! Jeanie xoxox

Dorian Petersen Potter February 9, 2017 at 5:06 PM Excellent piece Jeanie! Very well written and expressed. A 7! So sadly that life's harsh realities and problems are taking their toll in most people's hearts, minds and souls and of course wipe off their smiles and friendliness towards others around them.Yes, prayers can help, they are very powerful:)Wishing you a very lovely weekend! In his light God bless you!:) D. Jeanie Bennett February 9, 2017 at 5:30 PM You are so kind Dorian !! Thank you -- Jeanie xoxo

Carol B. February 8, 2017 at 10:59 PM Life stresses and worries can take a toll on people. I know it seems that people are closing themselves off and are not as engaging these days. It is sad. Smiling as I fav this poem. Jeanie Bennett February 9, 2017 at 12:54 PM TY Carol !! Jeanie xo