I look at myself in the mirror and smile.

I tell myself I am happy,

"I am happy." "I am happy." "I am happy."

I look back at my smile...

The way my upper and bottom lip part just so that the perfect bit of teeth show.

The way my lips curve upwards to express my so-called joy.

The way a single tear slips down my face and melts against my cupid's bow.

I wipe the tear spot away,

"I am happy." "I am happy." "I am happy."

I peer into my eyes and flinch at the sight as if they are screaming at me.

They are screaming at me as if to say

"You are not happy!" "You are not happy!" "You are not happy!"

They flood with tears and pour down my face as I gasp for air.

I am drowning in my own lie.

I scream back at my eyes

"I am happy!" "I am happy!" "I am happy!"

If others can believe it, why can't I.