this strange unwelcomed guest

pain stayed so long i said to him today,

"i will not have you with me any more."

i stamped my foot and said, "be on your way"

and paused there, startled at the look he wore.

"i, who have been your friend," he said to me,

"i, who have been your teacher-all you know

of understanding love, of sympathy,

and patience, i have taught you. shall i go?"

he spoke the truth, this strange unwelcomed guest;

i watched him leave, and knew that he was wise.

he left a heart grown tender in my breast,

he left a far, clear vision in my eyes.

i dried my tears, and lifted up a song-

even for one who'd tortured me so long.

-author unknown

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