Why can't I admit my troubles?
Why do I act like a fool?
Why do I hide my distress with a smile?
Why do I cover fear with happiness?

Why, though people are willing to help, do I not go to them?
Why do I only offer advice to others and not take it myself?
Why don't I face my sadness?
Why do I bury it inside?

Why do I let the pressure build?
Why do I let it rule my life?
Why do I smile most of the day?
Why do I cry myself to sleep?

Why should I carry on with this performance?
Why should I continue to smile when no one else is?
Why should I be torn apart just to make someone feel better?
Why should I help others when I cannot even help myself?

I don't know what else to do.
I've done this for so long.
Everyone is used to it.
I can't change it now.

So, I must continue.
Smiling on the outside,
Crying on the inside,
I cannot help myself.

But why?