Hiding Behind The Mask Poem by Ellia Keil

Paper faces playing make believe, if only for a night
They don't know, and how could they?
The one they dance with is poor
The one they kiss is in a broken marriage
Masquerades are made to hide away what we really are

I hide behind a deep blue mask
Not wanting to be found tonight
Hoping for a single night of freedom
A stirring in the dancing
On stage stands a golden mask, welcoming all to his party
My heart stops at the sight of you
Fear climbs my spine as you continue your cheerful banter
You call my name
But I refuse to return the call
It is too early, I don't want to be chained again

I turn and run to the only safe spot I know
The lady's room
I lock out all the masks
And turn towards the sink
A deep blue mask,
With a painted smile
Looked at me

I slowly undid the ribbons
Lowering the mask
Turning away the last second
I no longer can stand to look
At the small child who hides within me

A knock at the door startles me
Your voices flows through the thick wood
Embracing me without my consent
Beckoning for me to go out

I swipe away a tear
And place my mask back upon my face
A look in the mirror shows
The hidden child and
The forever smiling adult
I open the door to my chains

Instantly I am swept i
Your arms my chains
And told I am the belle of the ball
I don't want to be the belle of the ball
I want to be the me of the ball