Nested In Masks

as humans
we are
each of us
nested
in
dozens
of layers
of masks

each layer
separated
by an ego-driven
adhesive layer of
oblivious
hypocrisy

as one mask
falls away
the next is revealed

the irony is
the harder we try
to reveal our
true face
the harder
and stronger
each subsequent
mask becomes

truth is
there is no living
in human society
without
masking

our individual
and common truths
are just too hard
to swallow
not only for
society
but for ourselves
as well

especially when
we understand
the true
parasitic behavior
we express
with all of nature
with all life
here
there and
everywhere

–LE – 8/26/26