Once upon a time

Once upon a time,

I learned a lesson the hard way.

That people only have as much power

As you give them.

That you place value in their words

And measure yourself on their scales.

But girls are cruel

And wield this power   

Like they are going to war

Once upon a time,

I cried every night

And cowered before you.

Believing your horrid lies

That I was mean

And you were joking.

But girls are two faced,

And knew how to shatter my will

Like it was glass instead of iron.

Once upon a time,

My mama told me

Never let them see you cry,

Shoulders back and head held high,

Never let someone determine who you can be.

So now I smile.

Still fighting to see past your words,

But remembering who I am.

Shoulders back and head held high.

I took back control

Once upon a time,

I learned a lesson the hard way.

So thank you,

For showing me who I don't want to be