Happy Songs

I’m just trying to clear my thoughts
with a water  glass at my table,
and then I hear out of the jukebox
sounds of psyches that are stable.

I’m thinking things through on a downtown walk,
but my mind is running.
Then I hear those rhythms
by street performers, almost stunning.

I’m at an elevation
where I can see it   all,
and even in that box,
those upbeat joy-tones fall.

Even when I’m with my friends
in a car with windows wide open:  
they’re laughing and jamming,
but my heart’s still coping.

And my brain starts burning.
Why don’t I understand the happy songs?
I’m trying and learning.
My heart is still yearning
to understand those happy songs.