Skeletons Of Youth

we picked the scab

that hid the pain

we bore the drab

when it would rain

we masked the hurt

behind our eyes

shielded our hearts

with summer smiles

the ghosts of youth

reveal the lies

invented truth

and compromise

we held our breath

waiting for hope

we cheated death

and frayed the rope

held it inside

denied it power

now sit and cry

cradling flowers

too much to keep

so much to hold

the child's heart reaps

memories of gold

though all that's golden does not shine

what's gained in years

weakens the mind

to keep the peace

we follow the rules

until it leaks

creating pools

a muddy mess

that can't be used

forgiveness begs

cover the bruise

for happiness

is all that's left

a game for fools

the young forget

that the sky must remain blue