“Cruel Illusions” by K.E. Shea

Dreams are cruel illusions
that trick the mind at night.
Displaying either fears
or wishes in your sight.

I can’t dream lucidly.
I am never aware
when my logic is trapped
until day in a snare.

No matter how insane
a dream’s setting may be,
I’ll believe everything
my mind has to show me.

For years, I dreamt of love
so sweet and beautiful.
Just two against the world,
a bond not usual.

In those dreams, there was bliss
as we stood united.
Before the kiss I woke,
love still unrequited.

Dreams are cruel illusions
that toy with all your hopes.

Once, I dreamt of a man
whom I’ve seen in this place.
Something about him leaves
a smile on my face.

I got the courage to
ask him what he thought of me.
But before he answered,
daylight set my mind free.

Dreams are cruel illusions
that know you’re curious.

Often, I dream that my
Grandfather is alive.
To speak with him again
for two years I have strived.

As I meet him again
he usually says,
“I just went away for
a while, I’m not dead.”

But then our time runs out,
and I’m alone in bed.
I think of him often,
and the kind things he said.

Dreams are cruel illusions
that remember your loss.

As I get out of bed,
I go on with my day.
But deep down in my mind,
the sadness and pain stays.

Yes, dreams are cruel illusions,
from them we cannot hide;
for your dreams must reveal
all your troubles inside.