The Mask I Wear

Sameuel Mattson. 12

The Mask I Wear

This mask I’ve worn for many years has been designed by years of hardships, pain, and going through what seem to be the darkest pits of Hell. Every jagged edge of life, used to shape the porcelain that is the mask I wear.

Society expects a man to be an anchor for the people he’s closest to. He doesn’t show or talk about his emotions; He must be strong for those he loves. He puts the needs of his loved ones before his own; Even if it means that he gets hurt in the end. He protects the ones he loves at all costs; Even if it kills him. Furthermore, He doesn’t let strangers get too close: for he must protect his own. Some of the things I’ve been through in life have given me scars; physically, mentally, and emotionally.

But rather than dwelling on those dark times, I take what they’ve taught me To use it whilst continuing to fight on. It isn’t what happened that defines me, rather how I’ve used what I’ve learned to make me stronger. I’ve strived towards making myself a better stronger man than my biological father. The man I call my dad taught me that a man can show emotion, while still being strong for his family. That a man can let people in and develop new friendships or bonds, while protecting the people he loves. He’s shown me that a man can also let someone else be his anchor, while being the anchor for his family. And finally, he’s shown me that a father’s love can be shown to anyone. And I hope that I’m at least half the man, that my Dad in all but blood, Didn’t have to be.

Izabel Rivers. 11

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