Dear Stranger,

I tried my best To show you part of me. The side of me You've never seen. I'm more than a daughter; I'm an artist, a writer, A sister, a friend And now to you a stranger. I have a question, Have you ever realized That I have my own voice And I have my own life? I'm not relinquishing my soul-- I won't sell it to anyone. If I can't be myself Then who will I become? I have a mind of my own, A heart and gifts. I have a life of my own And it's mine to live. Yes, you gave me life, But it's not yours to give. You gave me this life So I can learn to live. Tell me, have we met? Have you ever seen me? Or did you just see my music, My tee shirts and jeans? It's not what I look like, It's how I look at myself. I'm embarrassed to show you it. Only you and no one else. Don't be disappointed, Mad or upset. Be happy I have morals, A mind and self-respect. I'm the person I want to be. I stay true to myself, Meaning I'm me. I'm me for no one else. I'm smart and independent Because you made me this way. I'm no longer fearful and afraid, That's not how I wanted to stay. Now do you know me? Or should I continue? I'm making you realize, I'm not being rude. So make your decision. Please, I just want an answer. Not to be disrespectful, But are you my mom or my mother?