Language Barrier (Poem Written October 2010)

I wrote this poem sitting under a tree here at the orphanage after two weeks. Thought it would make sense to share since I'm leaving in two weeks. It's cool to read it after being here a year; the "silent communication" that I longed to have with the people has definitely been reached!

Language Barrier

When words can't communicate

and expressions can't display

What is there to do but sit in silence?

and to relay, what you would say

if only you could say

and to contemplate what you would express

if you could digress

the language barrier...away, away

until, then, when communication so clear

all that is needed is a glance or stare

when silence is a story.