Tears are words I cannot speak.

They come from deep inside this ache

and say what I can’t say.

Sometimes I wish they would not come

into the corner of my eye,

then roll along my nose

and touch my lips.

I wish my tongue would never taste again

the liquid

from that source inside.

Sometimes I wish I did not think

or feel

and like this Stone,

could know a quietness inside

and be—

just be.

Sometimes I wish

that I could hold my thoughts

and feelings

at my side

the way I held my fists

when I was called before the Gods

and judged

to be a criminal

for my delinquent ways,

my disrespect for laws

my heart could not obey.

That day—

there were no words,

no tears,

no shivers of regret

when I was shown this Stone

and told my punishment.

I would not let them see my rage

at what I faced—

this burden I was given

as a way of life.

I did not bow to them

or turn away to hide my agony,

but swallowed

what was burning there.

And now, Dear Stars,

if you see tears rising with my voice,

know how hard I try to hold them back—

know that when I speak

these tears come from my weariness

and being weak.