The Mask Falls off

I’ve learned to sit back and simply... watch.

Because the thing about masks is that they eventually grow heavy.

They slip. They crack. They fall in the quiet.

And the truth, like the dawn, always finds its way to the light.

I see the difference now.

Between those who carry a lantern for me when it’s dark,

and those who only show up to warm their hands by my spark.

Because I 'handle things,' they thought I didn’t need handling.

Because I showed up, they thought I didn’t need someone to sit down

and ask, 'Are you actually okay?'

But I know.

I know who was truly down for me,

and who was just comfortable because I made their path easy.

So, without noise and without drama, I am adjusting.

Not out of anger, but out of a sacred self-respect.

I am saving my strength for the hearts that don't wear a disguise.

I am choosing the ones who see the soul, not just the prize.

Because even the strongest hearts get heavy—

and I’ve decided to only carry the ones that carry me back. ✨"