I am not pretty
when I cry:
a runny nose
puffy eyes
choking, gagging, wheezing
blubbering inside.

I am not pretty
when I cry.
It is a lonely,
silent cry;
mouth wide in a scream
pounding on my thighs.

I am not pretty
when I cry
standing there
with a sigh
fearful trailing thoughts
wondering when I’ll die.

I am not pretty
when I cry.
Too many things
so far up high.
I keep reaching
and reaching
and crying.
I hate crying.