Wow is all l can say
You have put into words how a lot of us must feel
1 Like
Beautiful poem, it’s a keeper. Thanks for sharing.
1 Like
Absolutely wonderful, spot on all the emotions that we have but keep inside so others dont see we are actually hurting all the time. Well done x
1 Like
@Lily64 This is beautiful and so true. Thankyou for sharing it 
1 Like
Just wonderful 
xx
1 Like
Such a strong message in there. Thank you for sharing. I can relate to this.
1 Like
Thank you so much for this. It made me cry. It makes me think about who is our ‘brave face’ for?
1 Like
@es1968 Thank you.
When I started to write this poem it was my personal message to my loved ones to try and explain how my outward persona was not a true reflection of how I really felt.
As the words poured out I was in floods of tears and felt a huge relief and sense of calm when I had finished. I knew then that my Brave Face was to shield and protect myself from having to face the loss, the fear and the pain; until I was ready.
A year on and I am braver and stronger but most of all I have learned that being honest about my feelings and emotions is the very best therapy. In fact professional therapy has helped me much more than ever before because of letting it out, in a safe, supported way.
We each have our own voice that needs to be heard, in whatever way feels right. We all have emotions that we can’t control and a life that will throw the unexpected and unwanted at us - as well as the simply wonderful.
Giving ourselves the kindness, love and respect that we show to others should be turned on ourselves every single day.
Protect and love yourself by not trying to spare others. The people who care about us can better understand what we need and are then able to support us in their best way.
My family, friends, colleagues (and even the medical staff) were better able to manage my expectations, worries and loss than if I continued to smile and nod along as was my old way.
It isn’t easy at first.
A very close family member couldn’t face my emotions themselves; and had to take a step back. That’s ok. They have to manage their own emotions. I have to manage mine.
We are all doing our best.
Life is a journey that we can’t plan ahead for or choose which events are best for us.
Even If we only take off that Brave Face when no-one can see or hear; it will make things easier.
Now I find that the Brave Face is mine to put on and take off whenever I want.
It is a human resource that can be incredibly valuable in challenging times but can become an added burden if we try to hold it up indefinitely,
Wishing you all the best 