We wear the mask that smiles and lies to save our lives
Because to do otherwise
Might mean death or destruction of our bodies, our souls, our hearts

We smile when told
We lie when challenged
We stifle our protests
Because to do otherwise
Might mean death or destruction of our bodies, our souls, our hearts

We cross streets, office spaces, and factory floors
We playfully bat away violating hands
We put on overcoats
Because to do otherwise
Might mean death or destruction of our bodies, our souls, our hearts

We carefully voice our requests
We cautiously word our questions
We painfully bury our accusations
Because to do otherwise
Might mean death or destruction of our bodies, our souls, our hearts

We wear the mask that smiles and lies to save our lives
Because to do otherwise
Might mean death or destruction of our bodies, our souls, our hearts