Ever been to the shoreline at dawn?

With the wind blowing unsure of a separation or union-

Yet the waves give an undying promise to kiss the sand;

And the unadulterated beauty floods your vision.

But you claim “it’s the salt pricking the eye!"

Have you ever lost someone you loved?

When belying those unfulfilled promises becomes the hardest part,

Every song swells up your eyes as memories twist the knife stuck in your chest;

And the logical mind is at constant war with the unreasonable heart.

But you sniff away saying “ it’s the flu burning the eyes!”

Were you ever left homeless under a dark stormy sky?

When whirlwinds threaten your existence and lightening crashes without a care;

A helpless prayer springs out of those reddened eyes

And tomorrow seems doomed shrouded in ominous fear.

But you let the rain hide the tears and thunder drown the cries!

Did you ever feel the solace of being acknowledged?

After years of struggle, hopeless days, sleepless nights and self doubting debates ;

The moment finally arrives - recognised by the audience, understood by your people, heard by the universe;

And the unending interlude gives way to peaceful acceptance of fate.

But you fight to hold back the tears as your heart rejoices!

Where words fall short and emotions are overwhelming,

Whether trembling hands or sweaty feet, pursed lips or pounding chest;

Tears help to bridge the distance between breakpoint and survival -

Be the trough of failure or on glory's crest!

At your best or at your worst – they are your window to the world,

So let them flow, do not be ashamed, do not wipe or hide;

And the next time you wake up on a wet pillow,

Remember you made it till here, and own them with pride!

Those crystals convey your truth, they negotiate your sanity with stress -

Although through stained cheeks, heavy lashes or not an instagrammable smile;

But tears let you breathe, tears share your burden,

And tears are a sign that you are human, you are still alive!