I do dwell too often on the past
about things I had no control

If I told all it would likely flabbergast
these memories from so long ago

I am ashamed when being asked
of the things that happened then

Forced so young to grow up far too fast
my childhood stolen way back when

Did I deserve to be lashed and trashed
whipped mercilessly told I was stupid

Was I an evil child needing to be outcast
for my thoughts and my curiosities

Always living in terror made to feel abashed
taught to lie because of pain and fear

Thinking I was a part of some lower caste
hiding the real me became so undemanding

Take control now change the contrast
easier said than done I tell myself

Knowing it wasn't me who harassed
I only wanting to be loved

Nurtured and protected from life's blast
allowed just to be a kid

Yes I do dwell on many things from my past
I can't throw them away they are a part of me

Faces from my youth hide behind this wrinkled mask
they formed this person that I be

Wiping my tears mugging my fears giving away my guilt at last
Loving who I have become is the only way I will ever truly be free