The Journey Inward

What if we lived our truths differently?
Not hidden and tucked away neatly,
But boldly, naked, on our sleeves,
Across our faces.

What if someone asked, "How are you?"
And someone answered, "I'm having a tough day."
What if someone asked, "How are you feeling?"
And someone answered, "I'm in pain."
What if someone asked, "How are the kids?"
And someone answered, "One isn't speaking to me and one is smoking pot."

What if we shared what weighs on our hearts,
What occupies our minds?
Not to overshare or cross boundaries,
But to give an honest, authentic reply,
Giving others permission to do the same.
Not letting polite social conventions erode our truths,
And isolate us from others when we need them most.

What if we told the truth?