How Can I Ever Cry Again? Poem by RIC BASTASA

Cry baby, I was, and mother could not rest
Her sweet lullabies work somehow
I always stop crying when she puts me
Safe in her arms

She was always there to wipe
My tears
She was always there to assure me
Of her kisses

Somehow I got used to this crying
And it does not work anymore
To appease me
And put me to silence and sleep

You never loved me I know
My hands always reach out for yours
You closed them and open them to another
I am in pain but how can I every cry again?

When I do not have tears anymore
When crying does not work anymore
To appease me
And put me to sleep and be silent

I have learned how to be tough
I have learned this art of self-denial
This art of losing and not retreating
To always move on, & be silent and strong