Ouch.

I won’t comment on your work

just for the sake of reciprocation

I won’t pat backs or shower praise

to receive a pat or praise in return.

I stopped sending christmas cards

so now I don’t receive any

I was suspicious for some time

that people were only sending in hope of a return.

If it’s praise you seek for the sake of praise

my hands are empty and my lips are sealed

I offered a true critique once and was bombarded

with hate mail because truth does not satisfy.  

Such talent...

so wonderful...

I love the way...

I do know the words

but I can't use them

when I don't mean them

silence is golden.