It started with a mist

I blew and blew but

It was only water

It couldn't hurt me.

It grew heavier still

But I waved it away

If I could see through

Then I would survive.

Through the months,

The fog hung over my brain

Like a thick weighted blanket

Trapping my thoughts

But I was functioning

I didn't need help,

I didn't need help,

I wouldn't need help.

They tried to help

But I told them I was okay

Through gritted teeth

And smiles that didn't quite reach my eyes

Have I always been this alone?

I asked, standing one night

Hardly able to think through

The ache in my heart

For any emotion

That wasn't sadness.

I sat down at my little keyboard

Turning the volume down low

It was a simple tune

Of no importance or significance

But a measure in, and I

Found myself

On my knees

With tears falling from my chin

Begging for help

And I crawled to bed...

When I awoke, the fog was gone

No sign of tears shed the night before

The light in my brain was back on

And I was prepared to face the outdoors