Don't Smile

The world expects a smile, a pearly grin so bright,

A mask to hide the shadows, to push the darkness from sight.

But today, the smile feels hollow, a foreign, painted guise,

For behind these tired eyes, a storm of sorrow lies.

The weight of burdens presses, a heavy, unseen chain,

Each forced smile a betrayal, a whisper filled with pain.

Let the tears fall freely, a cleansing, honest tide,

No need to hide the heartbreak, no reason to confide.

They say a smile is healing, a beacon in the night,

But sometimes, letting go is the truest, purest light.

Let the frown etch its furrows, a map of what has passed,

A testament to battles fought, a storm that couldn't last.

The world may find it strange, this lack of joyful gleam,

But sometimes, strength lies hidden, in the depths of a silent scream.

It's okay to be broken, to wear your wounds with pride,

For vulnerability is power, a truth you can't hide.

The smile can wait, my friend, there'll be sunshine after rain,

But for now, let the tears flow, wash away the lingering pain.

Don't force a smile, a lie, a mask that doesn't fit,

Embrace the raw emotions, in this moment, just permit.

The world may judge and whisper, with furrowed brows and stares,

But let them turn their gaze away, climb their own life's steep stairs.

For your journey is your own, with valleys dark and deep,

And in the depths of sorrow, a strength you'll surely reap.

The smile will come returning, a genuine, sunlit bloom,

When the storm has passed and settled, dispelling inner gloom.

But until then, dear heart, hold on, there's beauty in the rain,

A cleansing, raw resilience, that eases inner pain.

Don't force the smile, my friend, let authenticity take hold,

For in the tears and silence, a story will unfold.

It's okay to be imperfect, to wear your heart on sleeve,

For true connection blossoms, when you truly believe.

The world may crave a smile, a mask to hide the real,

But in the depths of sadness, a deeper strength you'll feel.

So let the tears fall freely, a cleansing, honest tide,

No need to hide the heartbreak, no reason to confide.

For in the raw vulnerability, a power starts to shine,

A strength that's built on truth, a love that's truly thine.