Strangers

I am not sure who I am. Usually, I am hidden behind the smiles, determination, and stubborn kindness which she possesses. I loiter in the shadows. Sometimes she sees me and will let me speak, but never with conviction.

But sometimes, I step into the light and onto center stage . I bask in the tears and frustration she feels. If only she'd let me stay here, we'd learn to work together.

Instead, she suffocates me with denial, platitudes, and that insufferable ability to ignore my voice. She treats me like a stranger though we've been together her entire life. Denying me comes easy to her as if ignoring it will make me disappear forever.

But I don't go away, I go back into the shadows and keep fighting to be heard. I have utmost patience. One day, she will break down and listen.

but