My parents they schooled me to plan in advance.
To not live in the moment or leave things to chance.
They convinced me that life was a dangerous game,
And around every  corner lurked sorrow and pain.

My childish innocence stolen away,
My sunshine exchanged for an ever cloudy day.
My hope extinguished and dreams chastised,
Rainbows replaced with brooding skies.

Belly full of anguish and fear and dismay,
These are my gifts I endure each day.
Intricately stitched, deep in my soul,
Nurtured by them , the hands of control .