the urge to cry escapes me
but not the emotion
the humiliation still
burns deep
causing violent commotion
the rejection still
scars me
searing my elation
with a heart so empty
it can't even cry
i turn the other way
shame burning on my face
you'll never look at me
i can't bear to look at you
with that realization
the tears begin to fall
and with them, me
~erika boal