Broken Glass

I’m a professional at wearing a mask, but once I’m off the stage it starts to crumble and I’m left standing with myself. Looking into a mirror that reflects the past Of another person’s life. Something sad and dark and looming in the shadows Something hurtful and painful and burning at the edges Of the happy mask, the one I wear. I’m in another persons’ shoes Wearing her clothes, and smiling her smile. I’ll walk a mile in the light, But once I’m off the road the soles fall apart And I’m left standing barefoot Unable to stand the broken glass under my feet. The brokenness of the other girl’s life, The one without the mask. I am stronger now I can wear the sturdy shoes of tomorrow And leave the broken shards from yesterday I turn and leave a trail of pain But barefoot worries are left far behind me The false accusations of the mirror As the mask falls to the ground My true self shines