Mask

We all wear a mask without knowing it.

A mask to hide what we feel,

What we know,

And what we really think about the world around us.

Some of us have been wearing this mask for a long time.

Some of us are just building it.

A mask of silence,

That is docile and obedient.

One that does not oppose the order.

One that does not question.

One that hides our clenched teeth.

That hides our frustration and anger.

A mask of determination,

That is driven and focused.

One that has direction and purpose.

One that is not controlled.

One that cannot be tamed, or distorted.

The mask we put on for strength.

Not so much to hide behind,

But to support us in times of need.

A mask of compassion,

Of empathy and love.

One that shows we care for others.

One that hides the pain we may feel.

One that lets us connect with others.

The one that lets us cry silently,

While staying strong for the world.

But what are we beneath the masks?

What is in the empty space?

The true self that is constantly hidden.

The person we cover up to protect us.

Who gets to see that person?

Who gets to see the clenched teeth, the tears, the fears?

Removing the public façade is a frightening thing.

Letting go of the disguise, the shell.

Pulling the peddles off the flower to leave the naked center.

We live in a world of masks,

Of secrets hidden behind pretty faces,

Of pain hidden behind smiles.

We trust little, love less, and give only glimpses of ourselves.

When you find someone willing to let you see behind the mask,

Don’t take the gesture for granted.

We all take our masks off for a reason,

Just like we all put them on for a reason.