What makes me human enough?

My cheeks ached with how wide I was smiling,

But then something wet hit my lips, a little salty.

Being the human, I touched it with my tongue,

Tasted something that I could not understand.

Music was loud in my ears, drowning my mind,

I was lost to the world around me, unaware of it.

When my wet lashes fluttered against my skin,

I was brought back to the cause of my happiness.

The little, lost puppy on the side of the highway,

Was adorable and I longed to hold him to me.

I wanted to hear its little growls, small whines,

My hands reached up to take off my headphones.

As soon as the barrier was down, I was found,

My small sanctuary vanished away; I was bereft.

Thrust into the real world again, I was terrified,

Sobs shook me to my core; I can’t hide anymore.

Time to face my problems, I held her as she cried,

I was numb inside, but I had to be strong outside.

The tragedy had occurred, and I had to be ready,

Even though I don’t want to be, I had to be steady.

I had lost what I cherished most, she was so pure,

I held on as tears flowed, mine or hers, I am not sure.

The moment of peace was behind us as we wept,

Days ahead will be filled with pain, I had to accept.

Being broken inside while still smiling was tough,

But, I guess, this is what makes me human enough.