I looked tired because I am tired

Dear Delyara, Someone told me I looked tired today, and I smiled in the usual polite way. What I did not say was that the tiredness has layers now. Not just lack of sleep. Emotional repetition. Financial pressure. Carrying too many unfinished thoughts. Managing too many small things. Trying to stay kind when I feel thin. Trying to stay clear when my mind feels crowded. Trying to keep life moving while some part of me keeps wanting to stop and stand still for longer than is socially convenient. “Long day” is easier to say. But the truth is older than a day.