Why are you S.A.D.*?

Why are you S.A.D.?*


It seems everything now has a label.
Every twitch means you’re somehow unstable
and, of course, there’s a new pill to take
with a price that will make your bank break.

The neighbors, the traffic, the stress,
the ongoing political mess,
an unending list full of reasons…
Now it’s come down to blaming the seasons.

How can you feel sad in the spring?
The earth is reborn.  The birds sing
welcoming songs,  flowers bloom
dispelling the cold winter’s gloom.
    How can any of this sadden you?
    Oh, the pollen.  Excuse me. Ah-chooo.

In summer we bask in the sun.
It calls to us, “Come play and run!”
We enjoy family picnics, the beach;
happiness is within our reach.
    How can any of this sadden you?
    Sunburns and insects… that’s true.

The warm summer fades slowly away,
Autumn’s palette is now on display.
Halloween, pumpkins, Thanksgiving too;
so many reasons for not feeling blue.
    How can any of this sadden you?
    ...though a turkey may not share my view.

The first snow changes the land's complexion.
The new year - a time for reflection.
Warm fires and Christmas. There’s joy in the air
that reminds us to show each other we care.
    How can any of this sadden you?
    Unless you’re naughty, I haven’t a clue.

If you’re feeling down, don’t blame the seasons.
The feelings are yours, whatever the reasons.
Each day is a chance to begin again
by embracing the joy, ignoring the pain.

It’s up to you to direct where you’re going.
Your glass isn’t half full – it’s overflowing!

An entry for the May round of "SENIOR CENTER FORUM" 
Prompt: Seasons
Form: Quatrains  
Line Limit:  None
Line Count: 38