Keep your eyes closed
bite back tears.
you don't need the attention,
you don't need the affection.
get over it.

be kind
and respectful
keep your head down
try not to flinch
when things get too loud.

don't tear up
and don't cry
don't make it obvious
if you do.

you're worried and you're scared
but there's no need to fret.

cook, clean, who cares for praise
or acknowledgment?

be nice and respectful and small.

you have no voice to be used, yet.

choose to be obedient and submissive because your fire starts too many confrontations.

bite back tears, anger, words.
bite back your defiant voice.

no need to start up, yet.