The mask that I wear is familiar to me. Although I have made it transparent for you; I usually only remove my mask in darkness or by candlelight. I wear it as a comfort to those around me. They call my mask a smile. The disfigured spirit beneath the mask that I wear is too painful to expose. A scarred spirit is a hideous sight to behold; even for those who are themselves scarred. Strength is woven into my mask. I have found no better way to hide the tiny child within and protect her from those who may prey upon her weaknesses. For realism, I have shaded my mask with pieces of my past; so forgive me if I shed a tear or two. I've stitched in tiny lines. They represent the many roads that I've traveled along my journey through life. With a tiny stroke of faith, I have painted a glimmer in my eye; therefore making myself pleasing to those that I may pass along my journey. Occasionally, I have met a kindred spirit and have removed my mask entirely; but those times were many candle lit memories ago. Tonight as I write by candle light, my mask is tucked safely into the words on this page. You are many miles away form me and cannot see my nakedness, my sadness. Neither can you wrap me up in hope for a brighter tomorrow. I am sorry for that. The wisdom of a kind hearted spirit is most comforting, Yet, the closeness of those that you truly care for is often the most painful. I sincerely thank you for reading my words; for never making mention of them during our conversations. Most of all, I thank you for giving to me someone that I can trust with the nakedness, the beauty and at times, the ugliness of myself…
