She lingers behind mi
with each step I make,
Whispers, “I’m with you,”
despite my heartache.
I tell her, “I’m fine—
be on your way.”
But she clings to my spirit
and darkens my day.
I am forceful, determined,
put on a brave face.
But she continues to smother,
to invade all my space.
She keeps mi from breathing,
from holding back tears.
She begs mi to wallow
and holds up my fears.
She laughs in my face
and fills mi with doubt.
Oh, Sadness, your presence
I could sure do without.
Sadness—
I’d rather not face you,
your shadow, your sting.
I won’t close my eyes
and miss what life brings.
I much prefer joy,
happiness, and glee,
to look back and reflect
on what they’ve brought to mi.
In the blink of an eye,
life can crumble and fall—
Oh, Sadness may smother,
but love conquers all.
© c. michelle bryant griffin
© ai image created by michelle bryant griffin