My Name is Mask

by Taiela Garcia
(Spokane, WA)

Nice to meet you
My name is Mask.
I smile and say "I'm fine"
To all those who ask.
Your secrets I keep hidden
From all the prying eyes.
Camouflage your emotions
Your feelings become lies.
Wear me for too long
And your soul I'll begin to steal.
Steep price to pay
Just to not want to feel.
Often in life we are judged by those
Who know not our whole story,
Who live equally fake
Sheltered by false glory.
Not all of us can handle
The monster kept inside.
That's why I am worn
So he can safely hide.
Removing me is a task
Not easily done,
For you must fight with yourself
Until one of you has won.
If ever you want wish to battle
Your beast from within,
Prepare yourselves for war
And let your games begin....