THE MASK I WEAR

Soul weighed down by pain, A burden so heavy, it drives me insane. Debt looms like a dark cloud, Exams and expectations, standing tall and proud. As the firstborn, I bear the weight of responsibility, Unemployment haunts me, a constant inability. Refusing to partake in illegal schemes, Fraud and deceit, shattered dreams. Betrayals from friends and lovers, a knife in my back, Disgraced and humiliated, under attack. Tired of the facade, the fake smile I wear, Death whispers softly, a tempting affair. I yearn to escape, to forget it all, But people mustn't know, they mustn't fall. The illusion of strength, the facade so real, Hiding the pain, the hurt I feel. Yet, I carry on, with a heavy heart, Knowing I must play my part. In this cruel world, filled with deceit, I'll rise above, I won't be beat. Deep within, I find the strength, To overcome trials, to go to any length. I'll rise above guilt, shame, and fear, And emerge victorious, with my true self clear.