tears

the business of crying
is not an easy business
especially for men my age.

but there are times
when the clouds are really low
and you have nothing to hold on to.

its okay. let it out.
count to five as if you are lost
and then stop.

never again. not until the clouds
are lower than they are now or
until you are alone among trees.

tears are immortal symbol
of both helplessness and hope.
cherish them.

use them to wave 'good bye'
to your soldier grandfather
to lay him to rest among trees and clouds.

tears are ancient companion
of love and death.
be your tears.