When Happiness Hurts

Summary

The poem "When Happiness Hurts" reflects on the bittersweet nature of happiness, acknowledging that it is often accompanied by the fear of loss and the pain of impermanence.

Abstract

"When Happiness Hurts" is a contemplative poem that delves into the complexities of experiencing profound joy. It describes happiness in vivid imagery, likening it to the softness of velvet, the warmth of a blanket, and the vibrant colors of autumn leaves. The poem suggests that happiness can be overwhelming, as it carries with it the potential for pain and endings. The author advocates for embracing the full spectrum of emotions, including the discomfort that comes with intense happiness, as a means to fully appreciate life. The narrative emphasizes gratitude and care as essential tools for navigating the transient nature of joy and the inevitability of loss. The poem concludes with a reflective question, inviting readers to consider their own relationship with the discomfort of happiness.

Opinions

The author believes that happiness is multifaceted, encompassing both joy and a underlying fear of its impermanence.
There is an appreciation for the interplay between light and darkness, laughter and tears, suggesting that one cannot fully exist without the other.
The poem conveys a sense of gratitude for the present moments of joy, acknowledging that they are not eternal.
It is implied that embracing the potential for pain and loss is part of fully experiencing happiness.
The author encourages readers to subscribe for more of their reflective work, indicating a desire to foster a deeper connection with their audience on these themes.

A poem.

Photograph by author

Your cheeks as soft as velvet Your smile as joyful as the sun Your warmth is like a big blanket That soaks in all the fun

The clink of glass as we “Cheers!” Laughter permeates the room Memories brim and overflow As we stir the pot of nostalgia

Auburns and golds Butter yellows and greens Rustling and floating and dancing The autumn leaves are swaying with glee

So much beauty So much joy Sometimes it feels too much

Too much love Too much care Too much happiness

Lean into the fear Surrender to the pain Of the unknown, of endings, of disappointment There is no light without darkness No laughter without tears Love, let live I am grateful

To cherish all I have To nurture and protect To nourish, embrace and honour Every moment, every touch, every word, every sound It is all I have, here and now, not forever.

Life is fragile. Feeling joy and love comes with the fear of pain and loss. We cannot have one without the other. For me, gratitude and care is the only way out of this conundrum.

What are your thoughts about leaning into the discomfort of happiness?

Poetry

When Happiness Hurts

A poem.

I hope you enjoyed reading my work.

If you did and would like to read more, subscribe away!