They

When I was too quiet,
They blamed me for not speaking up.
For keeping my voice,
As if there were jewels in my mouth.

But when I started to talk,
They hate it even more,
For having too many opinions.
And being too clever.

They said I was too timid,
And now that I am brave,
They wished I wouldn’t be reckless.
I wouldn’t be so daring.

That’s what they said.

I have no say,
To define myself?

That’s what they thought.

I think otherwise.

~S.H.~