Customer Service

I swallow the lump that’s lodged in my throat,

Ignoring the hurtful words directed at me.

My smile is brittle and close to breaking,

And I imagine shouting a hundred scathing replies.

Yet I refrain from speaking even one,

Keeping my voice dulcet and professional.

When the phone call is done, I close my eyes

Willing the tears away.

Taking a breath, I accept the next caller.

“Hello, you’ve reached customer service. How may I help you?”