I have spoke for years at camps and events.  There are many stories, articles, and poems that I have quoted.  Of all of them, this is the one that gets the most, “Can I get a copy of that?”  I am showing you the portion that I read.  I believe that the original author was a man named Charles Finn.  So, thanks Mr. Finn, for showing us that we all at times wear masks.  I added a photo I thought was fitting!

Mask

Don’t be fooled by the face I wear,

for I wear a thousand masks,

and none of them are me.

Don’t be fooled, for God’s sake, don’t be fooled.

I give you the impression that I’m secure,

That confidence is my name and coolness my game,

and that I need no one.

But don’t believe me.

That is, if it’s followed by acceptance, if it’s followed by love.

It’s the only thing that can liberate me from my own

self-built prison walls.

I’m afraid that deep down I’m nothing, and

that I’m just no good, and that you will see this and reject me

And so begins the parade of masks.  I idly chatter to you.  I tell you everything that’s really nothing, and nothing of what’s everything,

of what’s crying within me.

Please listen carefully and try to hear what I’m not saying.

Please try to break down these walls with firm hands, but gentle hands, for I’m very sensitive.

Who am I, you may wonder?  I am every man you meet, and also every woman that you meet, and I am you, also.