JulieAloha

You’re doing just great...for the most part,
We like what we see...in the main,
We can tell you are
  passionate,
   knowledgeable,
     caring,
except...
  some people have some complaints;

When you try to assist, they’re offended,
As if you think you know better than they;
They see you reach out
  to be friendly,
    welcoming,
      helpful,
except...
  they feel you’re overstepping your place.

We know it’s a case of perception,
You couldn’t possibly know what they thought;
They could have just come to you,
  talked to you,
    directly,
      sincerely,
except...
  it's not really your explanation they sought.

So don’t offer to help, it’s too bossy;
Do your job without stepping on toes.
Keep your kindness,
  consideration,
    forethought,
      assistance,
except...
  be careful that none of it shows.

Now try not to feel hurt or downhearted,
We can see the tears rise in your eye.
We hope that you won’t feel  
 distraught,
   disillusioned,
     betrayed,
except...
  that I do...
    and I'm terrified even to try;

I’m afraid now to trust those around me,
I’ll say or do something they think is wrong.
I cried all the way home
  in anguish,
    with sorrow
      and hopelessness
except...
  I have to pretend that I'm strong.

So the mask that I wear is illusion,
The face that they see isn't mine.
A visage of confidence,
  happiness,
   laughter,
     and wholeness,
except...
  inside...
    I'm dying, a word at a time...