Many hide behind a wall
Behind the corners of a smile
Under canopies of laughter
Behind masks of indifference
“I’m fine” is the retreat
“I’m tired” a justification

Burdens weigh heavy
Pain runs deep
Sometimes unavoidable
Often self-inflicted

No matter the reason
No matter the fault
I plead, I implore
Be kind to one
Be kind to all

Beneath the masks
Behind the walls
Some souls are dying
One heartbeat at a time
One heartbreak at a time

Never judge
Love unconditional
Reach out, embrace
Lean a shoulder to cry
Wipe away one’s tears
Hold them dear and never let go.