Human

• Natasha Bates, Grade 11
• Poetry
• 2022

I thought "I can't see you, you can't see me"
Stopped being cute when we were three
Grow up and learn some maturity
Tear down the walls you built around my identity
I am more than just the labels you decided I should be

I can't bear the hypocrisy
My emotions are locked away but you express yours merrily
I can't tell which hurts worse
The cage or dismissal after constant inquiry
Give me the key to be free emotionally

Your child is not an accessory, not property
I am not your clone
I live and breathe and feel on my own
So respect the person I become
Because I am a human being, Mum