Forced Smiles

I smile.

"Really, I'm sorry that I forgot to send you a card.
With so many to write, I was under a lot of stress--
But I knew you'd understand."

I smile.

"Your application was excellent, of course.
Absolutely top-notch, among the best--
But we could only accept a few,
And the board knew you'd understand."

I smile.

"She won't mind. She doesn't need extra attention;
She can take care of herself. Look at her smile--
Unlike the others, she will understand."

It is a compliment.
They smile.
I smile.

Inside, I cry.

Copyright © 2002 Colleen Fischer | Last updated October 7, 2002