The mask had been on as long as the child could remember.
It was put on as a child to prove to the world happiness.
The sadness inside hidden so no one would know.
As the child grew the mask became more hardened and strong.
It became a barrier of entry and a closure for escape.
Nothing in, Nothing out.
The beauty of the mask was an illusion that kept many from asking questions.
The child did not know the way the mask would grow.
Then one day someone saw behind the mask.
They pushed and pulled on that leather until it softened. With time the work paid off and a hole emerged.
For the first time a bright blue eye shone through and swam in the light. It was the first time the child could see clear. The first time there was no cloudy mask of fear.
Love had found its way in and love was released out.