The mirror can testify how I paint a smile,
But inside, my heart’s in turmoil, vile.
Doctors’ words, like thunder, they rang,
My kidney’s failed, a silent pang.
No, you don’t know the depths I dive,
Behind this mask, how I strive.
Each day’s a battle, unseen, unheard,
My spirit’s shattered, like a broken bird.
I laugh and joke, play my part,
But inside, I am torn apart.
The pain, the fear, it never sleeps,
Like a shadow, it silently creeps.
I long for solace, a moment’s peace,
To let the tears flow, to release.
But I soldier on, with a facade so strong,
Hiding the truth, pretending I belong.
No, you don’t know the nights I have cried,
The endless ache I try to hide.
Each smile I wear, a fragile shell,
Hiding the chaos, I know too well.
No, you don’t know!
Not a single clue to show
Yet I will remain brave
Hoping for faith, a way to pave.
© Ifedolapo Ogunniyi
2024
Ifedolapo Ogunniyi 