I like the sound of my own
laughter on most days. It pierces the air
around me, breaking the tiny shards of
silence that make up one whole.
On the days I do not like giggles erupting out
of my mouth, I stare into the far distance and
wonder why my own laughter is vexing. It hurts because
It is fabricated, it’s a lie, it’s just a hollow sound
that I conjure to assuage my loved ones. It’s baseless.
My laughter on those days does not sound like
the golden bells whirling around the walls of the church.
And, it certainly does not sound like a waterfall descending
into a tranquil river. I like the sound of my own laughter but not today.