The weight on my shoulders is crushing.
It haunts me most every night.
My pain is invisible to you.
Why can’t you see how I fight?

At this age, I thought I’d be carefree,
Enjoying my life to the hilt.
So many demanding so much of me.
Why do you think I wilt?

Anger covers up my intense inner fears.
Humor does the same for my pain.
Stress gives birth to irritability.
Why can’t you see the strain?

You joke about the pressure I feel.
Not important to you in the least.
You live your life free of pain and guilt.
Why can’t you see my grief?

When I need to cry on your shoulder,
And be comforted for a while,
You misunderstand the affection I give.
Why do you try to beguile?

After so many years you still don’t know,
This person who is me.
I’ve tried to explain so many times.
Why don’t you hear my plea?