Sixth Sense

On meeting people, we shake hands;
Or smile and nod - in other lands
Our first impressions may be strong
We feel that we can get along.

Or maybe all our hackles rise
Instinctively we hide our eyes
Our sixth sense working overtime
Is fighting to give us a sign.

Weak handshake maybe, shifty eye
The picture's not quite right, we try
To force the issue, make a bond
But deep down in our heart, we're conned!

Non-verbal language can't be taught
But it's a skill that's finely wrought
Children have it in good measure
They pick up clues of fear and pleasure.

As adults, we trust feelings less
Logic rules our minds, I guess
We don't let instincts play the game
Too much is done “against the grain”!

(c) Poet in the woods 2016