Happiness

In the quiet dark

They wish that I was

Broken in a way that can be easily fixed

With glue

Or tape

Or rope

I wish the same

Looking in the mirror

A monster looks back

Twisted nose and mouth

Uneven eyes

“No one will love you”

It tells me

“Hide your unhappiness with a smile”

I guess

The very thing that causes my pain

Has taught me that

Happiness is not money

It is not power

It is not violence

It is not what is seen when looking in the mirror or simply chosen

It is quiet soft sunsets and crashing waves

Watching the moon creep up on a cold night and smiling

Echoing laughter with caring friends and family

It is being with those you love