The Passing Place

It’s already that time
It’s already that time
With mistletoe and wine
Where the balancing act, it begins
Managing emotions flowing like oceans
And that well-meaning comment or grin
Expecting my child to hug and to kiss
Relatives and friends that he’s never missed
The looks of distain as I offer again
An alternative high-five or blown kiss
We teach them to know, their body’s their own
But at this time of year must comply
Oh and don’t make a fuss, suck up emotions you must
For there’s no space to process or cry
It’s already that time