The Evidence

It manifests
In the blinked back tears
The dried blood around the cuticles
In the hushed voice
The averted eye contact

It manifests in little ways
A dimmed light 
An abandoned hope
A lost dream
An internal switch
A lack of energy while existing

It manifests and makes itself evident 
Despite the “I’m fines”
And reassurances 
Despite the polite smiles
And eager nods
Despite what everyone wants

It manifests
And you’re sad
And everyone can tell

2022

***Disclaimer: I’m not sad now, but this poem was written when I was. I’m also not a poet, but this is how that particular brand of sadness seemed to manifest at the time.***