Hidden Inside

There is a mask on my face.

It is on my face. No one can tell that I have it on,

because they only notice the smile.

The smile that hides the pain inside.

No one noties the frown on the other side.

They focus on the smile,

yet I am afraid to speak out.

I am afraid to ask for help.

I hide behind the mask.

They do not notice the sadness

that brews behind the mask.

The tears that fall from within.

But what is this?

Why would someone remove my mask?

Why would anyone be troubled by the mask?

No stop!

Instead of a look of disappointment, a hug.

You must have been tired of hiding.

It is okay.

You can stop smiling.

I stop smiling,

and I place a frown.

Tears fall, but this time they are happy.