Mask

– By Christine Murrain

I wear a mask 

And many condone

Because It hides the frown 

I secretly own

There’s pleasant commentary 

I’m forced to accept

And sadness 

I’m encouraged to reject

I’m told “You’re so strong”

While they all move on

And indifferently return

To their own

happy homes

Gaiety and Grief By Charles-Nicolas Cochin II(artist) French, 1715 – 1790