Atlas's Load

Emotions are choices

despite what we think

Confidence

is a choice

Fear

is a choice

Anger

is a choice

Happiness

is a choice

For some, the choice is easy

and they have always been able to make it

 

When we admire someone’s confidence

do we know how much of

a struggle

it might be for them?

 

When we see someone’s timidity

do we understand that they may

not yet have the strength to

rely on their courage?

 

When we are surprised by someone’s intensity

do we accept that it comes from

seeing the world

through a different filter?

 

When we are amazed by someone’s constant smile

do we wonder about

the pain

it might conceal?

 

Though emotion is a choice

that doesn’t mean

it isn’t influenced by our

experiences and by our

past

 

Don’t be shocked

when those who are hurt

choose to shelter themselves

when those who feel small and weak

don’t know how to pause and step out from under Atlas’s load

when those who have been wronged

have difficulty in finding mercy in themselves

when those who are strong

suddenly break down under burdens invisible to others

This poem is about: 
Me
My community
Our world
Poetry Terms Demonstrated: 

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