You know it, you feel it, you’re fully aware,
Their eyes are on you, with unbearable glare.
Their presence is maddening, writhing your whole being,
You never liked attending these family gatherings.
Couldn’t they bring your sibling for once instead?
Why is it always you they drag in this dread ?
The annoyance you feel is at its peak,
But you show no signs due to your intense perfectionist streak.
Hold it together, keep your cool, don’t fall apart,
Whatever they say, meet it with a smile, play your part.
Stay positive, even if it feels like a lie.
An aunt praises her child, while an uncle scolds his constantly.
Knowing that the talk will circle back to you, your parents wait patiently.
As for you, you play your role,
Head held high, assured gaze, maintaining control.
It’s just a matter of time, that’s all it is,
These wretched gatherings never last long, at least you wish.
So you endure it all till the very end,
Your feelings pushed down, you're confined to pretend.
All those judging looks, you bear without a flinch,
For your beloved parents, you cannot afford a pinch.
