My Heart Bleeding Ink

Inside

Not quite inside.

Not quite out.

I know it's time to come out now.

I know I should want to come out now.

Why don't I want to come out now?

Not quite over.

Not hanging about.

I'm allowed to take my mask off.

I know it's safe to take my mask off. 

Why don't I want to take my mask off?

Not quite sure which way is out,

beyond the door is certain doubt.

No. It is safer to remain. 

To repeat the same refrain.

To stand here on the threshold,

and smile through the pain.