A mask that everyone could see
Something to hide behind
A “shield” for me
It stung like needles
Burned like a brand
This mask placed by a hollow hand
I could never be rid of it
Never just be free
For what would my family think of me
It took a push from someone
A helpful hand
To finally remove that burning brand
They helped me take off the mask
Saw what was inside
And accepted me as I sat there and cried
They gave me a space
A place to be free
Until I was able to finally be me
I went to see my family
Without the mask, in open air
I steeled myself to be prepared
But instead of yelling
Of bitter frost
I found that my hope was not lost
I met with acceptance
Knowing care
A hearth’s warmth and gentle air
One day I left the mask behind
Not just for that day, but for all time
The burning brand, the stinging mark
Left in that closet in the dark
Aug 31, 2020
Aug 31, 2020 at 5:54 PM UTC