Smile

"Smile more," they tell you. And you do, you Smile for them, for little ones. Forced smiles, hiding the whispers of secrets. A Practiced art for young eyes that tear too easily. How could you let them see the intense burning of embers inside of you? They're 'too young'. "Why can't I be 'too young again?' " you wonder. But even then, you saw your mother's worry hidden, deep in her eyes. Like Shadows cast by unseen clouds. Even then, you sensed your father's fear when you held his hand. Like a tremor running through a seemingly sturdy tree. They still had to wear the mask. A silent pact, hiding burdens. The mask that everyone has to wear, eventually. When they can handle it. When they can handle the pain of emotions on their bare shoulders.