We meet again, ***** tile. I rest my head against the wall, staring at you as the cold water spurting from the leaky shower head hits my back in violent, uncoordinated patterns. Now begins another session of deep contemplation... what will we explore this time? Why my family insists on being so loud? The recent event on the news, and how utterly ridiculous politicians act? The newest drama from school? What strange "fact" my friend said to me this morning that made me question her internet sources? No. Tonight is a night of tears. They run down my face, leaving hot streaks that come as a shock after the steady drumming of the cold water on my body. Picking up speed, I feel like a shower of my own... why am I so sad? For many months I've asked myself this question. Every day I enter this shower and reveal my true face to you, little tile. This shower is my version of a zen garden... the only place I can truly delve into the emotions I have pushed so far away. But try as I might, I can't keep this mask on forever. More and more tears fall from my contorted face. it's everything. the answer is everything. I am constantly told to be grateful for all I have, to be thankful for the roof over my head and my food and clothes and family... Do they really believe I lack gratitude? That my emotionless face equates to me acting unappreciative? Apparently it is unacceptable for me to show my true face, ***** tile. Evidently I must smile for the crowd, despite what decay is taking hold inside. So I will let these tears silently fall. They are all that keep me real, keep me human; capable of other emotions than an exhausted smile plastered to a weary face. But I haven't long, I must collect myself again. As my head separates from the porcelain surface, I fix my eyes on you, my square friend. What have I become?