it surprises you

it surprises

you,

the tears, when they erupt

out of nowhere

while standing

in line with a cart of groceries.

there is nothing

here

to bring this on.

the lights are too bright

for sadness.

the decorations on display.

the music,

cheery in that vague

holiday way.

there is so much to be

thankful for,

and yet there it is,

down one cheek then

the other.