Masks

At any given time, they are in place,
masks, deceptions if you so will.
But they are not really deceptions
they are more like a barrier,
a shield of protection,
more for the outside world than myself.

The masks give the impression of
calmness, joy, comfortability.
Protecting others from what lies beneath,
the all consuming darkness,
that lurks behind the masks.

Most of the time those masks are complete
flawless, without cracks or splinters.
So that there is no hint of what lies beneath
but sometimes....

Sometimes the darkness,
the chill of the emptiness
that is hidden behind the masks
is so strong, so all consuming,
that the masks crack
and visions of the truth
glimpses of the cold, dark emptiness behind

seep through, shimmering in
the reflection of dull eyes
the flatness of a fake smile
the hollow sounds of an emotionless voice
betraying the sanctuary of
The masks