Are You Ever Asking? Poem by vern eaker

Are you ever asking who you are?
Do you think you’re the person people see?
I often wonder who I am
Aside from being just a man

Some see me one way others another
Different perspectives from siblings and mother
Acquaintances and friends have their view too
Who am I according to you?

Can you see past the brave face?
I’m scared and alone, out of place
Can you see through the humor and fun?
I am often the sad unhappy one.

Can others see who you might be?
Perhaps always hiding your misery
Displaying who you choose to show
The you that only yourself knows

I think I have learned from the past
Why it’s important to wear a mask
For some to see my emotions for real
I fear I would lose some appeal

Exposing myself to only those close
My truest friends know me the most
More so then even my family
Who believe they alone know the true me