Just Because

I wear other people’s moods
As if my life and theirs
Depended on the reflection
On the mirror of my face.

I carry their hope and mine,
Sticky and rotting
After a debilitating day
Of walking on eggshells.

I balance my dreams and theirs
While I try not to stir too far from center,
As I lay me down to sleep
Every night on my bed of nails.

-Naila Hess