Be strong?

My tears are not voluntary

Neither are the weird noises that

Emanate from my lips

As the tears roll down my face

They are a reflection of turmoil

The pain inflicted on me

It is a natural reaction

A testament

A weight thrust on me

So I do not understand

The phrase “Be strong”

Should I not feel the pain

Should I not express it

Should I force my lips shut

My intention was not to upset

Or spread my pain

If I could I would

attend to your helplessness

in trying to comfort

I would rather

your silence

Than the words

“Be strong”