Just a Thought

Just a Thought

By Scott L Vannatter – June 4, 2012

I smiled a smile; it was not real,
A painted on something to hide the hurt
which came from nowhere that I knew,
but stung all just the same.

It’s not unique, that smile of mine;
I learned it from others who, better than me,
have practiced the art, perfected the game
of dropping the screen in place.

I learned it young from friends and more,
those who, with years of training themselves,
can portray a fearsome, wooden frame,
where only twigs stand guard.

You’ve used it too; I know you have,
You’ve lived, you’ve loved, you’ve lost.
But, perhaps, I’m wrong and open are you
To slings and arrows from Willie’s play.

If so, I know not how to feel
About your gift or plight.
For if that smile you use not,
Then pain must accompany you home.

Twas when I was young that smile I knew,
but now that illness has struck,
I boldly go where none may have gone
to strike both sure and true.

You see I am not the person that I was
who could only smile and hurt
With two years’ pain of body and mind
I birthed myself anew.

Do I wish for you the pain I had
so normal would you stay?
I think if we all spoke more our minds
We’d learn from love to live.