TOUCHES AND HUGS AND TEARS This world has become such a frightening place With conflicts o’er politics, global warming and race We all long to feel just a loving embrace Of touches and hugs and tears. Friends seem so few and hard to find We reach out for comfort, seeking old ties that bind A time when people were friendly, and gentle and kind We so need touches, and hugs and tears. The warmth of a hug in a feeling so close That comes from the heart of a loved one who knows The sadness you feel, and their sympathy shows In their touches, and hugs and tears. Tears are meant to be shared in times of despair They show us the nature of someone who cares They fall from the eyes as warm liquid prayers These days call for touches and hugs and tears. © Joan Rowden Hart 2021