old and heavy it bears on me
the mask I wear for all to see.
it took root long long ago
before awareness... i do not know.

it comforts me when I fear
it says I need it when people near.
believe I do this parasite
deceiving me in its own plight.

I dream of courage, walking naked, free
to feel the world feeling me.
but when I tear on my companion
the pain and fear deepens the canyon.

I have lost hope, hidden despair,
until rays of sun with face appear.
maybe real life I can still see
but that secret I'll keep near me.