I give advice with steady grace,
A calming smile, a patient face.
I tell you things you need to know,
To lift you up when you're feeling low.
I say, "Stay strong, you’ll make it through,"
"Don't give up, there's light for you."
But deep inside, where no one sees,
Those are the words I truly need.
I offer comfort, warm and kind,
To soothe your heart and ease your mind.
I tell you, “You’re enough, don’t fear,”
But how I wish someone were near,
To tell me the same, to ease my pain,
To whisper hope through pouring rain.
I say, "Take heart, you’re not alone,"
"Keep going strong, you’ve always grown."
But late at night, when I can't sleep,
I wish those words were mine to keep.
For every phrase, for every guide,
Is what I crave but can’t confide.
I lift you up, but silently,
I wish someone would do that for me.
You see my strength, you see me there,
Always someone who seems to care.
But the truth is, I’m barely whole,
My words are bandages for my soul.
I’ve built a wall, I’ve played my part,
Yet no one sees my breaking heart.
I heal the wounds of those I love,
But never speak what I dream of.
So every time I say, "Be brave,"
I'm longing for the love I gave.
For in the wisdom that I share,
Is a voice that whispers, "I'm still scared."
I guide you through, I help you fight,
But in the dark, I lose my light.
And though I’m strong for everyone,
I’m still waiting for someone to come.
To give me back the words I give,
To remind me why it's good to live.
To lift me up when I can't stand,
To hold me tight and understand.
But until then, I’ll carry on,
Be strong for you, even when I'm gone.
For even if I break inside,
I’ll never let you see me hide.
I'll be the voice that clears your doubt,
Even as mine is drowning out.
And maybe, one day, I’ll believe
The words I speak, the love I need.
