Bitter Bliss: A Poetry Collection

No one else

I saw you run, chase after the ball and fall,

stay on the ground even as others continued playing.

I saw you lean on one elbow for support

as people sank to one knee.

I saw your face turn red, not with embarrassment, 

but with the onset of pain and tears.

People got more comfortable on the ground

as you cried and your coach hurried over.

You continued crying as I felt tears prick my eyes.

I was glad I had a mask. 

That way, no one would know.

You tried to stand and take a step but couldn't

and you fell back down, your friend concerned nearby.

It hurt me to see you like that, 

even though I don't know your name.

I wish I did, so I could send my love to you.

I know what it's like to be in so much pain

you can't stand, can't speak,

can't even ask for help.

All you can do is cry, sobs being torn from your lungs

like a feral beast trying to get free.

I never want anyone else to have to feel that way.

No one else deserves that.

I've learned to suffer in silence.

No one noticed I was crying on the field that day.

They didn't see I was crying the last time, either,

so why would this time be any different?

Maybe they're better off not knowing.