The Masks We Wear Poem by Sehrab Sathoo

The faces we meet, a fleeting show,
Behind the smiles, what secrets grow?
A tapestry woven, thread by thread,
With hidden motives, words unsaid.
We build our walls, so high and strong,
Protecting hearts from going wrong.
But in that fortress, cold and bare,
We lose the touch, the love we share.
The whispers spread, a venomous sting,
Of judgments cast, and truths they bring,
Distorted, twisted, out of place,
Leaving wounds that time can't erase.
We chase the shadows, fleeting fame,
Ignoring whispers of our name.
A hollow echo, applause so brief,
A shallow joy, a fleeting relief.
The masks we wear, a constant guise,
Concealing tears behind our eyes.
We play our roles, with practiced grace,
While longing for a true embrace.
But even in this world so cold,
A spark of kindness can unfold.
A gentle hand, a listening ear,
Reminding us that love is near.
So let us strive, with open hearts,
To break the chains, and play our parts.
To see beyond the surface deep,
And plant the seeds of kindness to keep.

* Sehrab Sathoo