Your arms are like sticks
and your heart is growing just as weak
at least that’s what they say
(but I remember how rumors always made me feel)
And inside of that determined force field
you’ve built around your heart
is a beauty
that no amount of calorie restriction
can reveal
And oh, I wish I could hug you
I wish I could tell you
that you are worth so much more
but you don’t know me that well
and I’m sure you’re not looking for
the extra weight of concern
So, I watch you walk slowly
holding your clothes
to keep them from falling
You take the elevator now
The stairs are finally too much
And I cry inside
and wish there was some way I could help
something I could say
that would cut through the clouds
of disease and sickness
that have invaded your mind
But I only say hello
and talk about the weather
or the paper we’ve just finished for a mutual class
I smile
and repress the urge
to share the details of the pain I’ve felt before
and to break down and cry the tears
that you deny yourself
04/30/04
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