The Game
When someone asks you "how's your day" you say: "Everything's okay." even when you're lying. ... Even when you want to cry you smile at them and meet their eyes. You never, ever, ever say "I need a hug, I need a friend." or: "The pain I feel's too much to bear. I could give up, I'm almost there." They smile and nod and say the same. It's all a part of this little game. They don't tell you: "My dad's in jail and I don't think we'll afford the bail. My house is messy, my job's a bust but I keep going, because I must." And you never know just what's inside, just what that painted on smile can hide even though you do the same.