Greta Scheff

Sacrificing Tears

The connection between
crying and shame seems clear.
Even when there’s no one else around
it feels like a performance.
And who am I trying to entertain?

It’s been a while since I’ve cried
more than just a tear or two.
I place blame on these prescribed daily doses.

I was nineteen when I started becoming well
for the third time,
Mom left me a note,
one word pasted on each bottle’s cap:

It’s       nice      to      have      you     back,       Boo.

And I’ve learned of the dangers without them,
so, dry as my eyes become,
I’ll keep taking the pills.

Constantly inspired by her surroundings in everyday life, Greta Scheff‘s work is a direct reflection and inspection of the world, her relationships, and herself.