When you come from
cracked glass and broken love
just a simple "hi" makes you smile.

When you come from a home
that is slowly breaking apart
like your sanity
a simple hug makes you grin.

When you come from violent threats
and empty pockets
a corny joke about why the chicken crossed the road
makes you laugh.

But
When you realize that the
clothes on your back
are ripped and torn
and your skin is peeking through.

When you realize that the
broken love
cannot be sewn back together
by the needle of trust.

When your realize that
the threats
are stinging you like
the tip of a needle.

The laugh
The grin
The smile

All fade away.