Water From My Eyes

Water From My Eyes | Fourth of July Edition

By: Casey Wilson

I used to think the cause of sadness was a too-fast-melting Bomb Pop.

I used to think the cause of sadness was a really painful belly-flop.

I used to be surrounded by close friends while watching fireworks light up the sky.

I used to play volleyball on sandy beaches and wipe Lake Michigan water from my eyes.

I used to have big plans for every Fourth of July that came around.

I used to see my phone light up and hear a string of text message sounds.

I used to think the cause of sadness was when the day was over.

I used to think the cause of sadness was when I was told “No” to one more sleepover.

I used to laugh so hard my side would cramp while the sun kissed my freckled skin.

I used to light another sparkler when the one in my hand went dim.

I used to think the cause of sadness was when I lost my marshmallow to the firelight.

I used to think the cause of sadness was when the mosquitos started to bite.

I know now the cause of sadness isn’t belly-flops, “Nos”, or bites-

It’s the sound of silence and darkness inside even after the fireworks light,

It’s the loneliness, the not fitting in, the “nothing is the same” cry,

Until you realize your toddler is whispering, “Mama, let me wipe the water from your eyes.”