The Barrier
by Joy Song

    They talked,
    She was silent.
    They laughed,
    She remained solemn.

    At the table,
    They spoke to her.
    She answered
    With gentleness
    But there was something
    That separated them.

    They laughed.
    She laughed with them,
    Not knowing
    What remained between them.

    She finally got up,
    Leaving them
    Sitting,
    Laughing,
    Having a great time.

    She went outside
    All alone
    Without saying a word
    And knelt down
    and cried.






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