WHEN I DON'T WANT THE WORLD TO SEE ME

WHEN I DON'T WANT THE WORLD TO SEE ME

I have a mask.
It has a painted on smile
and wide, friendly eyes.
There is a small basin at the bottom
to catch my tears.

I have a recording,
my voice from brighter days ...
cheerful, pleasant.
The sing-song lilt hides
the catch in my throat.

I have a costume.
I am a circus clown
and all the world laughs
at me, with me, it matters not.
When I don't want the world to see me

I simply put on my facade
and in the dark
I cry.

mebw
© 6/24/13