In the helplessness of love
we hear the loved one weep,
and our need to be enough
to quiet tears is deep.
But tears are harsh and salt
and sometimes love must stand
mute, in anguished default,
when even the touch of hand
does not bring the comfort sought --
The loved one who weeps must go
the dark way, alone, and taught
of the bitter tears, to know.
p. 32
