My Mask

I wear a mask

so nobody will see

what lies behind

my eyes.

I live in a semblance of

normality,

but reality plays tricks,

pretence is the lie I live.

My ever changing facade

reveals what I want the world

to see

to understand.

But it’s not me.

Precious few know me,

or see me in all my

weakness,

because I hide

that which would frighten.

It’s easier to exist

in a world where expectations

are met,

and I can be the man

they want me to be.

So here I am.

I look just like you.

Just please don’t try

to remove my mask.

Abandoned No More

Hello dear reader. This poem is the first one I've put on my website since #OctPoWriMo ended. I have written a couple poems, but I am saving them for the book I am planning to put out in the near future. I wrote this poem fairly quickly, as it seemed to flow into what you'll read below. It in no way reflects my state of mind at this present time, although I draw on experience to convey the message. I hope you enjoy my first offering of this month. 

Rod E. Kok
November 13, 2014

A torrent of musical notes

carried me along a wayward path,

dark and sombre, it was a dirge...

funereal in its essence, a haunting chant

painted black slashes across

my page.

I cried for support, for help...

a prayer to a God I thought

had abandoned me.

Never am I free from falling,

my ears still hear grim melodies

that have an unforgiving harmony.

My feet stand on the precipice,

my eyes looking into the chasm.

Yet through the cold silence of despair,

a warming embrace takes in my heart,

soothing whispers clothe my naked soul.

I am not alone.

For now I see that trail which leads me

through the valley.

My confidence is renewed,

faith is gifted out of grace,

and I am taught to trust

in my God, for he alone

will never abandon me.