There was a time of pigtails
and laughter 
a time of scraped knees
and bright bandaids

But I wasn’t quite her.

There was a time of first days at school,
sparkles, backpacks, and shorts

But I wasn’t quite her.

There was a time of pushing boundaries
and being misunderstood
a time of asking – who am I 

But I wasn’t quite her.

There was a time of big emotions
and finding where to fit
a time of tears and finding comfort

But I wasn’t quite her.

There was a time of growth and pride
a time of determination and commitment

But I wasn’t quite her.

There was a time I thought I was her
thought I could be her
but I wasn’t.