Why Does the Clown Smile

Why does the clown smile
I hear him ask
To make us laugh I answer
For that is his task

Doesn't matter
that he's in pain
just so long
as he doesn't make it plain

We giggle and chuckle
Laugh and guffaw
ignoring his tears
as they bleed his eyes raw

Yet he continues
making mirth
for only in that
Does he find his worth

He disregards
his own scars
by making us
forget about ours

Cares and concerns
all washed away
by watching this clown
this master at play

Why he does it...
all the joy he will make
the kind you remember..
as each day you awake

Because although he's here today
and tomorrow may have traveled many miles
he knows the memories may make you happy
And that, my friend, is why he smiles.

For although the pain may be great
and the suffering long
with the heart of a clown
you will never go wrong.