by Avery Cloward

Created on: May 01, 2008

Pain isn't the hurt that you've endured,
It's the tears that you cry after.
Pain isn't the child who's known no words,
It's the child who's known no laughter.

Pain isn't the cruel words often said,
It's the words that remain unspoken.
Pain isn't the heart, aching or shamed,
It's the heart that's truly broken.

Pain isn't the man shot down in battle,
It's the family left behind.
Pain isn't the woman who cannot see,
It's the woman who, to love, is blind.

So before you resolve to give up on all,
Before you cry, "I'm in pain!"
Ponder a moment what true pain is like,
Then go back to face the rain.

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