Just because I appear strong
Just because I don’t stay in bed under the covers
Just because I work and I smile and I function
Just because I seem okay most of the time
That doesn’t mean I’m not hurting
Please know I’m not trying to hide anything
Please know I’m not trying to hold it all inside
Truth is, I cry a little throughout each day
I just can’t afford to miss work
I just can’t risk breaking down in front of a crowd
I don’t want to worry people
I don’t want to ruin celebrations
Truth is, emotions often pop up at inconvenient moments
Please know when I am cranky it’s most likely sadness
Please know when I am quiet it’s most likely memories I’m trying to push away
Please know I can’t always share because the words are too terrible to say
Truth is, I’m fighting off thoughts throughout each day
Just because you don’t know what to do
Just because you don’t know what to say
Just because you feel helpless
That doesn’t mean I don’t need you
Please know that a hug helps a lot
Please know that your smile helps me to heal
Please know that I appreciate your patience
Please know I love and appreciate you