A Happy Ending

Once upon a time,

There was a little girl,

And in everyone's eyes,

She lived the perfect life.

Everyone saw her run across the fields

Singing and never running out of breath.

Everyone saw the smiles she gave

To anyone who happened to walk her way.

Everyone thought she was adored and content,

But I know better.

I've seen that same girl

Practice in front of the mirror

The perfect way to hide her tears

With some eye drops and a smile.

I've seen that same girl

Face an unimaginable wrath

Of people wanting to curb

Her free and spirited side.

I've seen that same girl

Wonder what she did wrong

And question her lasting hope

For a free and meaningful life.

We've waited for a happy ending

When we can accept who we are

And when others can accept who we are

Without having any fear of our identity.

The little girl is gone,

But I remain; her story is mine.

And despite time, I still have hope-

Hope for my happy ending.