Facade

To the world a scripted facade you present

What people see is the face that represents

The societal expectations that you’ve imbibed

Your authentic self you cleverly hide

You modulate your tone, you show

The right amount of vulnerability, you know

Which stories should be told and how

You curate your demeanor to allow

People to accept you in their fold

You shape yourself in a performative mold

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There is wisdom in donning that mask

Navigating complex social landscapes is no easy task

The mask you have worn is protective gear

But your true self lies beneath that veneer

It longs to be visible, to breathe freely

If you removed your mask, what would you see?

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Reclaim that authentic self for you

Give the world a glimpse of the real, vulnerable you

Let go of performance, and embrace

The power of your unvarnished face