do not say "no one knows i am dying inside"

 

as if it is some badge of honor

 

the "mask you wear" is nothing to brag about

 

neither is the "smile you fake every single day"

 

it is hard to not be okay and i am sorry for that

 

but pretending you are okay is the easy part

 

be brave

 

and tell someone

 

reach out to a friend or family member

 

because i am done awarding you sympathy points

 

you are not a trooper

 

you are an actor playing the part expected of you

 

do not pretend that you have built

 

these layers of armor to protect others

 

you are not a martyr

 

you are a scared girl who thinks

 

the best way to get attention is to pretend you detest it

 

stop

 

strong isn't suffering in silence

 

strong is asking for help

 

that is the hardest thing

 

so shut up and talk to someone