Reconciling Differences

I'm trembling inside,
turning pages to distract.
Repeating and repeating...
Repeating and repeating...
There's harshness in my eyes,
an inflammation in my chest.
I dare not look up.

Stop!

You don't get it, do you?
I've explained it,
speaking softly,
acting gently,
treading gracefully.
I've even yelled it from the mountaintop.
You're so stubborn,
always right.

My throat is raw and parched.
Listen to my voice as it shakes
and retreats into hiding.
Does that seem fair?
Does it feel simple?
I've been crushing intuition,
forgetting what I know.
Must I say "Time to go" ?

Another hit to the heart,
another blow to the ego.
I've taken what I can.
I'm an artist.
I'm a friend.
I'm only a man.
Still you push.
Wanna win?

So I'll say it...

I MUST GO.

Now we're in it,
eyes filled with water,
heart beating faster.
Now you've done it,
I'm broken down.
Is this what you wanted to see?
A puddle before you?
That's fine,
but let's get one thing straight,
these tears are for me not you.
These belong to me!

Wait?
No?

There you are old friend.
Now we can begin again.