I was told I need to filter my words.
Be more quiet, let others be heard.
...and for that I was sorry. 

 

Potential suitors intimidated by my success.

Friends tell me maybe say less.
....and for that I was sorry. 

Scholars pointing out my looks as I tried to study my books.

Was there a step I mistook? 

...and still for that I was sorry.

 

But year after year, my fears rang in my ears -

Am I wrong for thinking, breathing, being?

But year after year, as I yearned for answers to my fears,

my ears just kept on ringing.

 

I dug holes so deep.

Climbed mountains too steep.
I could barely hold my head above water.

But I prayed and I prayed.

Looked in the mirror each day,

Until one day I finally saw her.

 

She was the part of me I was too scared to be,

confident, worthy and bold. 

She said it's time to be free,

just say what you mean.

Don't let the world make you cold.

 

And year after year,

full of blood sweat and tears,

I worked so very hard but I’m finally here.

 

I can say I am no longer sorry.