How Long?

There is a time
when even tears tire
of dribbling down
hot red cheeks

They take their stance
determined to dry up
no matter how lips shudder
or chins quiver

There is a time
they say
”aw go on now”
and call upon the mouth

Whispers take up their place
in quiet expression
of recited bible verses;
something about seasons

"Change is good"
someone bellowed to me
sweaty hands clutched to pulpit
face reddening

I think it was tears
I saw in his eyes
so now I’m wondering about seasons
and how long till they’re dry