Dad, this is not me,

You have a legacy which I cannot live up to.

I’m just a little different than you.

 

You are strong, it’s obvious. I can see

It in your hair and the plump of your knuckles.

Dad, this is not me.

 

My body is testament to something new.

Touch me – I’m frail. See me – I’m pale.

I’m just a little different than you.

 

I don’t enjoy the bawdry,

The muscle, the flesh, or the power.

Dad, this is not me.

 

You can’t understand, but believe that my insides are not sinew.

I tear through lies, swallow fact, and embrace my overlooked youth.

I’m just a little different than you.

 

I beg too to understand why it hurts you, the invincible man,

When the roles are reversed and now it is you who has to make do.

Dad, this is not me.

I’m just a little different than you