Do I dwell too often on the past
about things I had no control

If told all they would flabbergast
memories of another time

Ashamed I am when being asked
of things that happened then

Forced to grow up way too fast
childhood stolen from me

Did I deserve to be lashed and trashed
whipped mercilessly told I was stupid

Was I a bad child needing to be outcast
for my thoughts and curiosities

Living in terror made to feel abashed
taught to lie because of pain and fear

Thinking I was a part of a lower caste
hiding the real me became easy

Take control now change the contrast
easier said than done I tell myself

Knowing it wasn't me who harassed
wanting only to be loved

Nurtured and protected from life's blast
allowed to be a kid

Yes I do dwell on things from my past
I need to throw them away

Wipe away my tears mug my fears at last
the only way I will ever be truly free