The Imposter

By Divya Gupta

Sweating in the chill air,
My head bowed low,
Searching myself,
In depths of hesitation.

“Today is the day!”
My pounding heart declared.
“Today they’ll all know,
I’m a fraud under the pretence.”

My fear rising.
I dare to look around.
Surrounded by people,
Who know it all.

On sleepless nights,
I scrutinize for reason.
Twisting and turning,
Unable to find the why.

I learnt my skill.
I practiced my art.
But I fail to understand,
Why this apprehension?

It’s been a few months.
Suffering this ordeal.
I feel lost,
In the cloud of suspicion.

A discussion, a question,
I think I know.
My tongue fails me,
For I fear being caught.

Another tiring day.
My eyes full again.
With tears of pity,
For none but myself.

Watching me suffer,
My soul comes to rescue.
Caressing the child inside,
Embracing it with love.

“Be kind to self.”,
My inner voice says.
“Seek out for help,
For you need it now!”

I cry louder,
Spilling my fear out.
My soul smiling.
Hope dancing around.

I wipe my tears,
With strong, shaking hands.
Determined to surrender,
I get up and take the first step.