Clowns That Hide

Beneath the paint is a wounded heart,

and a story is hidden from sight.

A mask of joy and laughter,

hides feelings as dark as the night.

A smile so wide to hide the sorrow

and a soul that has become crushed.

I am a clown; that is my disguise.

For safety to be found, I need to trust.

But in almost everyone, that is not found,

so, I keep my disguise and hide.

The joy you see is nothing but a lie,

for very few stand by my side.

The red nose hides a frown so deep,

But through the smile, you would never guess,

and the eyes that sparkle so bright,

carries the burden of pain I can’t express.

We still wear the mask of safety

from the hurt that is around us.

A shield of armor to hide behind,

Hiding the words that we will not discuss.

Within the laughter, we gain strength

to make this façade seem true.

Behind the painted costume,

is someone you never knew.

Connor