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We smile. Nod. Say we’re fine.

But inside?

Some of us are hosting ghosts at the dinner table and tucking monsters into bed. We’ve learned how to function with fear tucked beneath the ribcage and sorrow folded neatly between polite conversation.

This quote hits because it doesn’t flinch. Monsters are real. Ghosts do live inside us. And most days, they pass as us.

Are you okay?
I’m fine.
Fearful. Insecure. Neurotic. Emotional.
(FINE.)