The game

In the beginning it is almost fun

It makes you chuckle to yourself.

As you pretend,

First to others and then of course

Eventually to yourself,

The smile cones easily as does the response

“Fine, how are you”

And you move on with the hidden wounds submerged in politeness.

It is not a new talent.

Rather one honed early in life, recited so often you quickly lost count,

However, that memorable moment when you reach the crossroad separating stark reality from courtesy, there is temptation,

A brief moment of challenge to discard the veil that insulates and protects pain from detection..

But it swiftly departs when you acknowledge that you are unable to defend reality from the powerful tool of polite pretense.

One that shields and insulates and provides energy to face tomorrow.

And isn't it the same role we all play as we travel slowly but surely through life without sharing our stuggles.