We often show the world the face we think they want to see and not the one that truly reflects how we feel.
It is hard when you are sad, depressed or scared to show those feelings to the people around us. We smile, say it is okay because we don’t want others to worry about, or pity, us. We put on the ‘brave’ face when we are scared, the ‘happy’ face when we are sad and the ‘I’m okay’ face when we are depressed.
Our masks are just that, masks. They do not reflect what we feel inside. Only God knows how we truly feel; what our mindset is when we don’t want to answer the phone, the door or get out of bed.
We may try hard to mask our emotions, but the reality is that we can’t hide from those who know us. They can recognize when we are hiding our emotions behind a mask. Perhaps because our smile doesn’t always reach our eyes, or our voices are flat, or perhaps just because they know us well.
For many the struggle is real and an everyday occurrence. For others, it is fleeting and lasts a few days. Lately though more and more people are struggling due to isolation. This is when we, as friends, need to stay in touch and let them know they are not alone. Sometimes, just knowing that someone feels the way you do is enough to get you through the roughest moment.
If you are struggling, ask for help, or talk to someone you trust. There is no shame in talking about it. The fact is only you can take that step and ask for help. Only you can decide what, or how much you wish to reveal. Once you decide, only you will know the face you show.