The Reason Sisters Don't Smile

For Josiah

It does not come easy –
Twisting our generous lips,
Our selves,
Into joy.

It is a skill we have to work
To perfect:

Rolling back the grief
That makes tombs of our mouths;

Stretching the muscles
That clamp the rage in our teeth.

I’m telling you,
Brothers –
It is a real struggle –

Opening our traps
And letting go

© Michelle R. Smith 2006-7