What Do Others See?

What do others see when they gaze upon me?

Do they see the darkness that follows in my wake or a soul unburdened and free?

What do they look at when they gawk and stare?

Do they look at a girl who is full of life or the spirit that isn’t quite there?

Is it the dimness of my eyes or the hollowness above my cheekbones?

Is it the dazzling smiles to hide or the lilting voice of many tones?

Who can know what others behold when so wrapped up in wondering exactly what they think

Who cannot be anxious and worried enough that into the pit they sink

Could it be that I’ve become so good at hiding the abyss of mist that will always cling?

Could it be that hiding it for so long has transformed me into a perpetually happy-looking-thing?

No, it can’t be those things for my heart heavy and I’m tired to my bones

No, I tell myself as I brood over the thoughts tumbling like stones

So what do people truly see when people glance my way?

I hope they see someone who is damaged and healing, burdened and unburdened, someone who is here to live and stay