There Is Nothing To Gain Poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar

You ask...
How has my perception changed?
Over the years,
I've endured...
Heartache, disappointments...
And the healing from personal pain?

I have managed to grit my teeth.
With no bitterness to show I keep.
And a smile that reflects a happiness,
Inside of me I deeply feel.
However...
There are kept moments I will not reveal,
When I stay awake at nights and I can not sleep.

You ask...
How has my perception changed?
Over the years,
I've endured...
Heartache, disappointments...
And the healing from personal pain?
Well...
I have learned there is nothing to gain,
By lieing to myself to leave tears on my pillows...
Without washing out the stains.