Thief of Joy

I saw a baby in the market today, ?Caught its eye and made a funny face—? It started to laugh, a pure, joyful sound,? And I smiled, thinking my job was done,? Went on with my shopping, a list full of tasks,? Much to do, you see. Later, in the checkout line,?There they were again—mother and child.? I made the face once more,? Hoping for the same sweet laughter. But instead, the babe began to cry,? And guilt sank in, unexpected and sharp,? As if I had stolen the joy I had once given.