camouflaged

the shadows they dance everywhere
stares at children and they scare
an evil lurking beyond the corner
all hidden in a genial demeanor

he lost his mind and did not mind
found something else to go find
soul sold and then he knew anew
he was not to speak just to do

so dreams were to be suspended
instead false hopes were vended
masks and shells further acquired
and now a new future required

stalking ground never yet trodden
growing roots in mud wet sodden
no escape red tape desolate cape
so breathless mouth stays agape

some ate of the apple so young
he left and left nothing unsung
died glad as only glad can be glad
no regrets.. or maybe just a tad

often we forget what we had started out as
and what we really wanted to be
this is for you, Layne Staley
and anyone who lost what we are

in the desperate struggle to find who we are