Afraid to Be Me

[Verse 1 – The Mask] I talk loud when I’m scared, Laugh hard when I’m down, Keep that smile painted on When the truth comes ‘round. Every mirror I pass Knows the lie I defend, Try to look like I’ve got it made, But I’m breakin’ again. [Chorus 1 – Confession Begins] Can’t run from the shadow that calls my name, Can’t blame the world for my secret shame. If you saw the real me, what would you see? I’m tired of pretending — I’m afraid to be me. [Verse 2 – Projection and Blame] I point fingers at ghosts So they don’t point at me, Make noise ‘bout the darkness I don’t want to see. Tell myself I’m strong, But it’s pride in disguise, I hide from the truth In my own alibis. [Bridge – The Moment of Realization] I made enemies out of reflections I feared, Built walls ‘round the pain till it all disappeared. But truth don’t die, it just waits in the dark, For the mask to slip off and show the heart. [Final Chorus – Soft Acceptance] Can’t run from the shadow that walks with me, Can’t love the world till I set me free. If I drop my guard, maybe I’ll see, The one I’ve been hiding’s still worthy to be. I’m done pretending — I’m afraid… to be me.