Do we all not put on a show
Wondering how far it will go
Lies we hope others believe
In these dark webs we weave

We only have to remember lines
Everyone will then follow the signs
The final bow — “Bravo!” — they say
Come back tomorrow for a new play

Fellow actors, the stage is yours
Go forth and search for the cures
Listen intently to the hollow cheers
As the stage embodies all your fears

Beyond the make-up and lights
Wonder how I spend my nights
Pretending to be what I’m not
Or is the real me finally caught

We’re all actors on a stage
Stuck inside a empty cage
Masks hide our cold eyes
Isn’t it a believable disguise?

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A poem by Jason S. Sullivan, 09-26-20