I grew up around boys
Brothers of all ages
All I wanted was to be like them
I wanted to be strong like them
I wanted to be tough like them
To be good at sports like them
To be included in the games
To be a part of the conversation
So I tried to change
I stayed quiet about things that hurt my feelings
I played basketball instead of jumping rope
I avoided all that was considered girly
Just to be accepted
But as I got older I realized
I could be accepted by them
And still be like me