Photo by Christal Yuen on Unsplash
I am an actress
Every single day
I put on make up
The smile that says
Everything’s okay
The stars haven’t aligned
I haven’t gotten better
I am constantly at war
With me
About the Creator
Gail Fredricks
just someone learning, unlearning, and laughing through the chaos.
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📢 Raise Your Voice Thread: 01/08/2026
Our “Raise Your Voice Threads” are hosted most alternating Thursdays at 12PM ET to offer creators more avenues to uncover exceptional stories on Vocal. As we are continuously searching for fresh creators and inspiring stories, this thread provides an opportunity to exchange and discuss the stories that have moved and motivated us on Vocal.
By Raise Your Voice by Vocal5 days ago in Resources
Comments (4)
Well said. Thank you for sharing.
It's really tough to put on a mask and pretend. Sending you lots of love and hugs ❤️
Every day may be a struggle; every day feels like it weighs us down a little more; but find the good in the little things, a bit of laughter, a good book, a heart wrenching song that speaks to your soul. One day the mask will fall; one day the world won't feel so much like a stage anymore. And then you'll be able to let your true self shine. Wishing you well.
oh, yikes. This is a great self-assessment of not feeling emotionally okay, in a poem. I loved your poem but it is sad and I hope you will be okay soon. I loved how you began with "I'm an actress," and then took us through the acting and the finale of you are not okay. Great job.