We never truly know what goes on behind closed doors
For behind each smile could hide a frown
Behind each happy face that we see and ignore
There’s someone who needs a little lift because he’s down
We never truly know what prompts each word others speak
Was it really a happy thought or was it sad?
There’s so much in this world that we seek
Yet not everything we get in return makes us glad
We never truly know what hides behind the laughter
Is it only concealing the darkness, the utter despair?
Still there even when the sun rises after
Never seeing the ones who love you, still standing there.
Morrighan's Muse 
Are you thinking of Robin Williams? It is very a propos.
Yes. It’s just my reaction to the loss of such a talented man who, deep inside, was hurting. Just didn’t want to add his name in the tags though.
I understand.
Been there. Done that. Got the scars and second chance. Many don’t. Your poem broke me with that memory but your drawing reminded me that I survived. Every time I hear of someone that gives in to their demon, I remember, I didn’t reach up far enough to all those people who wanted to help me up. Sometimes you can’t reach up. Someone else has to reach down. Thank you for reminding me, I’m still here. I understand the peace he sought in the blackness he embraced. He is at peace and we are left to wonder, to mourn.
Thanks, Willy. It just hit me hard, knowing how much he made me laugh starting with Mork and Mindy and just about everything else he’s done (except the one where he played that killer) yet he had demons of his own that wanted a piece of him.
I don’t like my last line so much, as I never really wanted loved ones to be thrown into the role of feeling guilty for whatever happens. But we do the best we can though.
I think your last line is important to the whole poem. It is those loved ones left behind that struggle with the loss, often with self-doubt about what could or should have been done. Many times, loved ones are the last ones reached out to, if ever. It’s a beautiful tribute and a lasting reminder of those who suffer depression.
Thanks, Willy! You bring up a good point. I guess that’s what happens when I try to be politically correct and then try to correct my poetry. Thank goodness it’s remaining the way it is 🙂
I know the feeling. Sometimes, you just gotta let it rip 🙂
Very poignant, I also immediately thought of the sad news of Robin Williams when I started to read this.
It’s such sad news.