You've got this way of moving That always made me believe that you Wanted me to learn how to dance Because that was what was to be done. Little girls were to take ballet And not kiss other girls behind closed doors. That's what you always taught me. But, no, you never said those words. All you said was a child's version of "Yes, ma'am" and "No, sir." But actions speak louder than... ...Wait for it... Words. At least that is what my band director taught me. You always wanted a band kid, Right, Mommy?
You played nice. You showed up to my performances You cried when I played the right notes And I found my spot on stage You were all you were supposed to be Right, Mommy?
I've always had this feeling That it was all an act That you showed up for the cameras And for the other parents That's why you came to church All those years when I was younger Right, Mommy?
I started to doubt you when I had to sit in the third pew by myself After he left us again But you were always sick That's what you always told me The old women who sit behind me Don't believe that anymore I'm too old for that now I've lost their pity but maybe they gave it To the little girl who... Oh wait, no other kid sits alone At the front of a Lutheran church. It's always been just me. But you were sick all the time; tired Right, Mommy?
And you brought all of those men Into our house And told me not to bolt the door When the last one left But I was tired of being belittled And beaten because you couldn't STAND to be alone for a year But I guess I'll get married four times Like you did because you are An excellent roll model Right, Mommy?
I can't remember being little, Mommy. Did you let him hurt me? Or them What are the chances that you were too busy Crying your eyes out for an act And they hurt me? Slim to none I'm sure, Right, Mommy?
You've always been a good actress Maybe that's where I get it from But you have become so good That even you don't notice how fake Your words have become Especially when it comes to me and who I love I don't know what to believe anymore So maybe I'll just start up an act Like my mommy did. That seems to be the way things should be At least that's what I've gathered From sixteen years with you.