The Mask

You must keep calm and carry on,
That is what they tell me.
Show no pain, you’re all right,
But why can no one see?

Broken and twisted inside,
Hidden by a sunny smile.
Weeping in my heart of hearts,
Buried in rage and denial.

Ev’ry day it’s just the same—
I put on my mask of stone.
I smile sweetly, laugh with joy,
Though weary to my saddened bone.

Through the day I wear my mask,
Smiling out false joy and health.
Naught but night, in darkest peace
Can cloak my own true self.

Yet when Sun sinks his shining head
Below the Western rim,
I dare show my darkened heart,
Let my tears fall again.

Tears of crystal stone they are,
Covered by my hardened mask.
Silent weeping, hidden away,
My purpose no one asks.

Finally, when Sun shines,
I dry my tears once more.
I wear my mask another day,
Shield my heart so sore.