behind the happiness

The mask of smiles, a carefully wrought art, Concealing cracks, a shattered, aching heart. "I'm fine," I say, the words a hollow plea, While shadows dance, a mournful, lonely sea. The world expects a show, a cheerful guise, No room for tears, no time for weary sighs. So I perform, a practiced, practiced role, A silent scream, a loss of self-control. The weight of grief, a burden hard to bear, But vulnerability, a risk I dare not share. And so I lie, a fortress built of sand, Hoping no one sees the cracks within my hand. Perhaps this resonates with you? Let me know if you'd like to explore this theme further.