Like my mask?
Can't you see?
Stop with that task.
Just look at me!

So, it's invisible?
That's what I wanted.
It's not invincible,
In fact, rather distorted.

You say "You look fine."
Just look again.
Don't you see that I can't shine?
You just might, not now but then.

Why can't you see,
This mask of mine?
I fake my glee
And my feelings, I confine.

~a poem by Elizabeth Kay on chronic illness~