YOU GROW UP WHEN

I grew up 

when I found out 

how much people change

You go into high school 

with your best friend

And leave as strangers

Not even recognizing the other

That face you always thought you’d know

You grow up when people leave 

You grow up when you’re left alone

Alone to fend through the hallways

Alone to find a different hallway

One that may get you to class faster

I grew up

When I learned

How differently people think

What’s taught to one

Offends another

Politics, beliefs, interests

Great minds can think alike

And not think the same

You grow up when you learn it’s okay

You grow up when you can look past it

Look past the differences in people 

And find the similarities

Your brain, your thoughts are still yours to keep

You grow up when you learn

That it’s okay