Ode to tears

A stream on your cheek 

lukewarm and brief. 

A salted kiss, 

sweetened by grief.

Beads of compassion 

that soften the edge, 

drops of humanity, 

that suffuse the rough earth.

Promises of unity

dewdrops of faith. 

Vehicules for wisdom, 

don't keep them at bay.

Recollect them all,

praise and not blame!

Honor your ache, 

treat them as pearls.

Weave them in threads, 

wear the necklace.

Aspire to connect, 

attune to the truth. 

Even when shed by past wrongs 

they will heal fresh wounds.