My Masks

I wear not one, but many
Masks that protect me and shelter me.
Hide and disguise me,
From this big, and I’ve been told--Bad World.

My Mask is a necessary evil.
It is a robe that allows me to be “proper” and“harmonious”with those in this world.
And yet, it allows me moments to myself.
And a chance to retain my individuality.

There may be a smile on my lips,
But an ache in my heart.
No one need know,I have my blessed Mask.

Turmoil rages within me.
Anger has a place there too.
But, my cherished Mask allows me
To keep the face I show the world--Serene.

At first, I mocked
When told I needed a Mask.
But learnt the hard way
That frankness and honesty are but foes.

Alas,Total trust I dare not give anymore.
It brings me but pain and anguish.
Along with a wish………
That I had been wiser in my ways.

Now,I know.I survive.
By wearing my Masks,
And showing a different face.

(1995)

A poem I wrote at the age of 15, at 'gun point', when I was participating in some inter-school competition and was left with the poetry writing section when my classmate took prose - a task I had never undertaken until that point! This was with all the emotion and hurt a teenager had to muster. Today, at almost 35, I don't go in for masks anymore - I've finally come to a point where I try to just be, and if people don't care for it, they can go on their merry way. Still, wanted to share the piece.