Grief

Grief is too important to hold back
But also too important to force
It is genuine, a defence and attack
The body overwhelmed with remorse

I have felt grief in many ways.
Sometimes, when I didn't expect.
Often short, elsewise for days.
But I can't feel true grief as a sign of respect.

Most grief, has been for those I knew.
Family, friends, young, old.
But there are others that broke through.
Essential strangers whose parting left me cold.

Those whose art would come no longer.
An idol whose acts would inspire.
They are rare, for me, leaving grief stronger.
Left me standing a little less higher.

I respect grief a lot indeed
As my companion in the darkest place
Feel grief, if you ever need
And don't, if you need not its embrace