Second Best Poem by paul barnacle

What does it mean to be second best?
It is lonely, you always try harder.
It hurts, they always leave you.
The only question you ever ask is “Why? ”
Seconds don't count.


“I really really like you, but....”
“You are so special, but......”
“I want us to be friends”
“If things were different.....”
“Who knows what the future may hold? ”


“It may not work out, but I have to find out.”
“I dot expect you to wait.”
“It wouldn't be fair”
Second best is not a good place to be,
It really isn't for me.