how are you?

a simple question

But be honest you don't want the truth

not really

you want me to tell you everything is fine

hunkidoori

no different than a stranger passing by

a thin veil of niceties

masquerading as care

an easy out answer is what you expect

if I said I'm unhappy or sad or feeling upset

you'd feel trapped in conversation

awkward and weird

so I lie instead

its easier for us both

no shame for me

none of your time lost