Can I Cry?

What kind of message are we sending children when we encourage them to hide their tears?

Hush, little baby, don’t say a word
Because society hates to see
Our tears and sobs and sighs
Of compassion or sympathy.

This world would much rather
We hold everything inside.
For it’s unacceptable to be “weak”--
So our true feelings we hide.

And when we are faced with fear or pain,
Devastation or uncertainty,
Rather than be honest, we hide
Behind these walls of apathy.

In order to fit into this life,
You must engage in the masquerade --
Never show your emotions, do not be transparent,
Instead, continue the perpetual charade.

So, little one, dry those eyes,
It’s time for you to learn
To swallow your sobs and blink away tears
And show only unconcern.