The hidden face

We live in a world hiding behind our mask. If only people could freely express who they are and their emotions. This poem is my creative attempt to engage individuals to examine themselves with openness to accept who we are and what we mean to each other.

We all wear a mask to hide and conceal
It covers our emotions so as not to reveal

To hide a short-coming or a painful memory
Perhaps a troubling issue that’s difficult to see

It covers our distress, anxiety, and pain
And allows safety and protection keeping us sane

It hides facial features and allows one to blend
With colleagues, family or even a close friend

The rationale to hide may create angst and fear
Solutions to contemplate may feel honest and near

But if the mask were removed or faded away
Emotions expressed could bring a humbling new day

Some may find comfort and want to be free
Yet others reluctant, afraid to be “me”

Judgments and assumptions may be difficult to feel
But freedom of expression would be genuine and real

Actions could be devoid of inhibited ways
And the face might shine true in what it conveys

Happiness and fulfillment could be created with change
The beauty of openness might not feel so strange

Alan L. Nager MD, MHA, is director of Emergency and Transport Medicine at Children's Hospital Los Angeles. He is professor of pediatrics, Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California. Nager received his undergraduate degree in public health and child psychology, his graduate degree in health care administration, his medical degree from the University of Minnesota Medical School, and his training in pediatric emergency medicine at the Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh. Nager has lectured extensively worldwide, authored numerous peer-reviewed publications, written and published children's books and poetry, and has appeared frequently in the media.