A Mask or a Shield?

I asked my reflection,

who am I?

Lost behind a shield,

or is it a mask?

Is this my protection,

or is it simply a lie?

I try to find what's right for me,

though I have a fear of being wrong.

They tell me, 'Find a tune to play.'

'Just march to my own drum.'

In a world with a thousand places to be,

my heart sings every song.

I see what my family needs,

and I love them enough to care.

Strange thoughts make me shy away,

saying, 'I'm too much or not enough.'

With each interaction I try to sow my seeds,

and hope they're glad I'm there.

I decide it's a shield,

protecting them from the demon in me.

I am depressed and feel as though I am not enough.

I am anxious and too much for those I love.

My sharp temper is a weapon to wield,

one they know but won't fear to see.