Curled tightly in a ball
without a hope in sight
tiny, tucked, and made as small
as a mouse who dare not fight

Over the years
her voice disappeared
except for one crucial phrase
I’m sorry
are the critical words—
she learned them to stay safe

It doesn’t matter
who’s actually right
or who is really wrong
When the only person
who decides the answer
is your only mom

In your world
there is no action
you did or didn’t do
because everything
whether right or wrong
was taken out on you

And you were young
and you were small
so of course
you believed her words

They grew up strong
inside of you
and became your own self-worth

You will listen to your mother
for what choice do you have?

And you will say you’re sorry
because you’re very bad!

So you learned to say those words
and you knew to say them fast
You found there were repercussions
when you failed to act

So much of this you don’t remember
yet the signs are clear
each time you apologize
to everyone who’s near

You’re sorry for all the things
you did or didn’t do
Because for your entire life you were told
the problem here is you

So you say I’m sorry
and do your best to lay
tightly furled in that ball,
safely tucked away