Smiley Face Poem by Ebubechi Ireke

*To the Funny Guy on the Street*

Behind most smiley faces
lie freshly shed tears, like raindrops on a sunny day,
hidden just beneath the surface.
To you, dear,
what keeps you up all night?
What shadows linger in your thoughts,
like ghosts haunting an empty hallway?
What memories echo in your mind,
urging you to hit your head on the wall,
only to stop, fearing the bruises
will reveal your silent battle?

I truly want to know.
I want to hear your story,
the symphony of sorrows you carry
beneath your cheerful disguise.
Or perhaps I shouldn't,
for I might lack the capacity to comprehend
the depths of your unspoken pain.

But still, thank you,
for insisting I won't frown,
at least not when you're around,
turning your mask into a beacon of light
in my darkest moments.
Thank you,
for sharing your smile,
a precious gift you give freely,
even when it feels like there's none left for you.
Thank you for wearing the mask,
a brave face painted with humor and grace.

I hope you find the solitude you seek,
a quiet harbor in the stormy sea of life,
where peace can mend the cracks
hidden beneath your laughter.

I'm your friend,

© Ebube