Happiness Tears Poem by Imogene Wagner

The phone rang at midnight, fearful I rain
Into the table and jarred the divan,
Trembling hands lifted the piece to my ear
“Daddy? ” Oh, Daddy! Yes, Yes, I hear,
You had a nightmare and couldn't resist
Calling to see if I'm well and exist?
I am and I do, I am perfectly fit,
What's that noise? It is sniffles? Well, a bit.”
(I couldn't tell you, now could I, I cry?
I mustn't be maudlin. Time heals goodbye.
But you are so far off and I was just five
And now you are wondering if I'm alive –
There is a sweet heart leap, just once I dare
To hold close the joy of knowing you care.

(October 1948)