A Hidden Existence We have seen, even explored the idea of a smile Plastered across someone’s face to hide The shadows that fall underneath. But what if Someone’s sadness shown was a cover To conceal something even darker behind? What if those eyes that dripped solemnly Were a pathway to the truth? Perhaps Those sorrowful eyes were smiling in Another place. Somewhere kind. Somewhere That their thoughts felt lighter, the stems Of dandelions on a breeze. Somewhere that Their lament could be shown with ease. What if they felt so empty, so desolate, That their happiness felt too heavy, too Complacent? What if they became resentful Of the happy reflection they had created. Careful now. For this person, we think, is Not really content either. But instead, Full of dread as every time they go to beam Like the sun waking you up from your dreams Their head spins as they are reminded of The way that they lost their voice that one Day. When consent was removed and rough Hands gathered at their sides. They became Not sad, just alone. As their perception of the World had changed. They lost their mind, their Pride, their emotions. And so now they sit and Cry, unsure exactly why but knowing it is Easier than having to replace their smile That everyone once saw. Concerned Faces and words swarmed their vision, But at least they knew they were at peace
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