Stronger

Cowering, like a whipped dog,

My tail's between my legs.

Nowhere to hide, but within myself,

From your anger and rage.

You told me who I was, and I accepted,

With no questions asked.

That woman lives within me no longer.

She's a vision of your past.

You tell me I have no choices.

I no longer believe that's true.

My self-image and self-worth

No longer depend on you.

You tell me that I'm yours,

You're entitled to me.

But I'm not a doll upon your shelf.

I'm not a piece of property.

I don't need you to catch me.

I don't feel like I'm going to fall.

I don't need you to hold me up.

Because I feel I'm standing tall.

I was given time to find myself,

Left alone with my thoughts far too long.

I've grown much stronger now.

I'm a woman of my own.