I Can Fool You With My Face

Erik Austin
Aug 4
1 min read

People think they know me. They see the smile. The quick wit. The way I walk into a room like I’ve got it together. And they believe it.

But here’s the truth: You can train your face to lie. You can teach your eyes to sparkle even when your heart is wrecked. You can laugh at all the right moments, say “I’m good,” and carry on like nothing’s wrong—because that’s what you had to learn how to do to survive.

I’ve walked into rehearsals, jobs, dinners after crying in the car. I’ve smiled while my world was crumbling. Not because I’m fake—because I’m practiced. Because it’s easier to make people comfortable than to let them see the mess.

Don’t get it twisted. Just because I look okay doesn’t mean I am. Sometimes the brightest people are carrying the darkest things.

And honestly, I’m tired of performing wellness. So here’s me saying it: Sometimes I’m not okay. Sometimes I smile so people won’t ask. Sometimes the mask is easier than the explanation.

But I’m working on it. Letting the cracks show. Letting myself be seen—really seen—even when it’s uncomfortable.

So if you’re good at pretending too… I see you. And you don’t have to fool me.

🖤