How can I tell
that someone
is lonely?

It is not because
of tear stains
on their face.
Or the strain
of years on
their shoulders.

It is not because
they sit alone
apart from friends
or because
they read books
about remote stars.
It is not because
they are
isolated.

And it is not
because
they say so.
They never
do.

How can I tell
that you
are lonely?

You smile so
often, dear.
Nobody
shares happiness
as freely as
you do.