Shining Silhouette

I stand before the mirror

My face a mask of joy

Eyes twinkling, lips upturned

But inside, a different emotion deployed

The corners of my mouth stretch wide

In a gesture that's automatic, not sincere

A facade of happiness that I must hide

From the world that would mock or sneer

I stand here grinning

Lost in my own confusion

Trying to find my way through

This life that's filled with illusion

So I stand before the mirror

Searching for my true self

Hoping to find the courage

To break free from this stealth

I long to be authentic

To live my life with ease

To smile from the inside out

And find the joy that never cease