Because You Are So Strong

The world has a way of skewering the sensitive,

Labeling those precious souls as inferior, or less.

Why cannot the whole of the populace realize

That to be empathetic and feeling in a society of opposites

Takes a stronger character than those who acquiesce?

You are what you are and I value your difference,

Like a water lily riding above the scum on a pond.

Your flair for expression of emotions warms me

In a civilization of takers and shakers who don't respond.

I did and do find respite in your tender life-words,

Syllabic vitamins feeding my diminished spirit and soul.

I looked for the very essence you give to me

For much too long in a void that was senseless and cold.

Why do I care if and that you are happy?

What could it possibly mean personally to ME?

My friend, I yearn for your sweet deliverance,

To know at last your caring heart can be truly free.

The winter of your discontent has stretched interminably,

And beaten you with guilt and loneliness far too long.

How do I know you can accomplish your life's quest?

Oh, Sensitive One, because you are so strong.


Author's Notes/Comments: 

I have a sensitive, caring, responsive, responsible friend who has borne the brunt of guilt for things he could not help while fulfilling every expectation from those he loves.  He sees himself as weak and needy.  I KNOW HE IS NEEDY, but aren't we all?  I see him as one of the most selfless and stong-willed humans I have ever known.  "A man that ruleth his spirit is greater than he that taketh a city."  This poem is for and about him.  You ARE appreciated, my friend.  You ARE loved.  God loves you and I love you with His love.

View onelilartist's Full Portfolio
Shaketa Copelin's picture

Man, this was really touching and beautifully written. Thank you for sharing.

Joyce Counts's picture

Jess, This is so beautiful. Why can't the world see things as clearly as you? Tears flowed down my face as I read this again.Some times I get the feeling that you have had a peek at my hole card. Pardon the old expression from the 60's. Later, Joyce/Spanky

Joyce Counts's picture

Jess, This is so beautiful. Why can't the world see things as clearly as you? Tears flowed down my face as I read this again.Some times I get the feeling that you have had a peek at my hole card. Pardon the old expression from the 60's. Later, Joyce/Spanky

salphire5's picture

Oh Jessica,
I have a sob in my heart as I read this lovely poem. You have a wonderful friend, but you, in turn, are a wonderful friend. You are blessed to have each other.
Your poem is exquisite. Superb manner of expression.
I look forward to reading many more of your poems. Keep up the good work.
F.M. Salphire