Disguised Behind a Smile

In dimly lit rooms people hide
from fear, pain and reality;
from peace, love and tranquility.

Wearing thinly veiled disguises
they venture out with smiles,
carrying baggage across the miles.

The weight of the load is quite heavy;
they're scared to let go I suspect,
something to do with self-respect.

The truth is I don't just guess on this;
in reality I know it well,
for I too have my story to tell.

My own collection of splinters and scars;
of pain, loss and confusion;
of living a life of illusion.

Wearing my mask through my day,
yet dying a little inside,
as my soul silently screamed and cried.

But the truth is behind those silent tears;
behind the pain hidden by disguise;
you're wide awake and so very alive.

And soon you'll break off the mask;
you will no longer need to hide;
you will wear your heart with pride.

A rebirth of souls will occur;
as you put one foot in front of the other
and slowly begin to recover.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

via a twitter prompt:
"disguised"
From: @writingprompt