His Smile Hid the Storm

He was the light in every room, the friend who could lift spirits with a joke or a gesture. But behind the smile was a storm no one saw. That’s what hurts the most knowing he made sure everyone else was okay, while he was silently drowning. Since then, I’ve learned that strength isn’t about hiding pain, it’s about being honest enough to share it. Now, I ask people how they are and really mean it. Because sometimes, all someone needs is permission to open up.