smile, dear!

i know how it feels to wake up alone
the one you love so far, miles away.
i know the struggle to pull yourself up,

leaving a safe haven built of blankets and sheets.
a simple, happy morning message,

a mask to hide the hell that’s brewing in your heart.
to leave your house?
it’s leaving behind a piece of them,
and a piece of yourself.

smile, dear!

i know how it feels to be “surrounded in love”.
friends say they’re there, and say they’re happy,

empty promises with loose meanings.

love, live and in the flesh,

feels cold, almost mocking.

what your friends say?

what your family preaches?

none of it matters.
you’re more alone than you’ve ever been.
smile, dear!

i know how it feels to go to bed alone.
your love lies awake in a similar place,
but the distance feels greater than it has.
a safe haven like this is so warm,
though it lacks the depth of the real thing,
who keeps your safe.
most nights end and you’re drowning,
loneliness and heavy eyes too much to bear.
when did two hours of rest
become your norm?
but, most of all, smile, dear!

i know how it feels to have someone that loves you.
missing you,
longing for you,
adoring you.
this reminder makes it all worthwhile,
masks the pain in your heart,
burrowed deep within you.
with them?
your heart is a soldier, armed for a battle.