I smile a lot when I am depressed

My cheeks ache with exertion

I do it so that you won’t see

– My smile’s a diversion

I don’t want anyone’s attention

I know you cannot help me

I’m trapped inside my world of sad

I can’t escape from me

And so I smile and often laugh

Not wanting you to know

I feel a pain I can’t express

That has nowhere to go.

Just be my friend and understand

For help, I’ll never ask

But you can remind me now and then

That this too soon shall pass

Pat my hand and say you care

A hug works wonders too

Hold me tight and say a prayer

… I’ll do the same for you.