Asking someone “how are you?” is such a normal part of daily life, but often it is easier to lie than go into the real way you are feeling. This sweet poem talks about how a mum who has lost a baby does just this. It has a lovely last verse.
My Mum, she tells a lot of lies,
she never did before
But from now until she dies,
She’ll tell a whole lot more.Ask my Mum how she is,
And because she can’t explain,
She will tell a little lie
because she can’t describe the pain.Ask my Mum how she is,
She’ll say “I’m alright.”
If that is the truth, then tell me,
Why does she cry each night?Ask my Mum how she is
She seems to cope so well,
She didn’t have a choice you see,
Nor the strenght to yell.Ask my Mum how she is,
“I’m fine, I’m well, I’m coping.”
For God’s sake Mum, Just tell the truth,
Just say your heart is broken.She’ll love me all her life
I loved her all of mine.
But if you ask her how she is,
She’ll lie and say she’s fine.I am here in Heaven
I cannot hug her from here.
If she lies to you don’t listen
Hug her and hold her near.On the day we meet again,
We’ll smile and I’ll be bold.
I’ll say,
“You’re lucky to get in here, Mum,
With all the lies you told!”
Author: Joanne Burr
