The Note You Needed Today
I’m fine, but not really
They asked,
“How are you?”
and this time,
they really meant it.
They looked at you
like they had space
for the truth.
But you still smiled.
You still said,
“I’m fine.”
Not because
they did not care.
Not because
they would not stay.
Because the truth
was too heavy
to carry out loud.
I hope you
heal from
the fear
of being honest
with people
who are safe enough
to hear you.
FROM:
Every time the truth climbed your throat and you swallowed it back down. every question you dodged with a smile. every night you cried alone because no one asked when you were ready to answer.
TO:
One safe place. one person. one moment where you do not have to edit your pain.
DATE:
The first time someone asks and you do not flinch.
TOTAL:
The tears you saved for the dark. they are not shame. they are just waiting for permission.