They told me

A Poem by Ecneartia

They told me
„You are too unusual”
And ever since
I've been trying to be normal.

They told me
„Your intensity scares people”
And ever since
I've been acting mild.

They told me
„You are too hot-blooded”
And ever since
I've been hiding my temper.

They told me
„Slow your pace, you're a lady”
And ever since
I've been walking on eggshells.

They told me
„You can't take what you want”
And ever since
I've been waiting to receive.

They told me
„You can't just speak your mind"
And ever since
I've been keeping quiet.

They told me
„You can't fight people bigger than yourself"
And ever since
I've been letting them win.

They told me
„You are too pretentious”
And ever since
I've been asking for less.

They told me
„You can't do things your way”
And ever since
I've been following procedures.

They told me
„You are too childish”
And ever since
I stopped having fun.

After a half life
Of chasing perfection
I told them
I appreciate the intention
But I do believe
They forgot to mention
That keeping thoughts unspoken
Creates internal tension
And this might just be
The perfect recipe
For a life lived for others
In the company
Of lovely OCD
And dear anxiety.

With all due respect,
Two words, one finger.