how often do I see
the darkness that is surrounding me?
and does my heart
ache when I see that you're falling apart?
I want the words to say
to show you the sunniest side of the day
but they don't come
the magic inside doesn't come

a smile can be guilty
in the presence of utter despair
you couldn't forgive me
if I laughed when you were like this

joy shuddering
your emotions are only fluttering
but you stare at me
is silence all that my answer can be?
I want hope on your side
but all mine seems to be hidden away inside
in your dimmed eyes
before the face of truth imitation flies

and I don't know I don't know
I can hold you when you cry
and mourn when you mourn
but it still seems excruciating
the pain you've internalized
is something I could never see
but I'm here if you can stand me