> The words on the page  
Arranged in neat lines  
Like a play on a stage  
When done well - there I shine.
>  
> On joyful, bright days  
And downcast, sad ones too  
When you meet someone's gaze  
I'll be there, clear and true.
>  
> Anger burns and flares out  
And I'm there in the hurt  
If you yell, scream, and shout  
I wipe away dust and dirt.
> 
> Like the slow patter of rain  
Or ebbing waves like the sea  
Coming fast like a train  
Or quietly sitting, like a nice cup of tea.
>  
> There are some who misuse me  
Teeth as sharp as a knife.  
But you do really need me  
I'm the salt (not the spice) in your salad of life.
> 
> When you've lost something dear  
I'm there like a friend  
You have nothing to fear  
After all, I might be a good thing, in the end.


Who am I?