I Think I Grew Up

I think I grew up
When I found
My own friends wore perplexing masks
to climb rungs of success

I think I grew up
When I discovered religion, race, or color
Were mere excuses for grownups
To shed blood

I think I grew up
When the chill of death
Froze and disoriented me
Then the real search for life’s answers began

I think I grew up
When my adorable baby was declared
A baby bird with too short wings
I knew then, I had to be his wings

I think I grew up
When I understood, I’m alone my only strength
All other claimants were with me
Only to make me believe otherwise

I think I grew up
When my vain attempts of smiling to the world became my mask
While the dark cloud inside
soaked me with unshed tears

I think I grew up
When I learned that the reins of my own life
were controlled by an invincible
Rider of the clouds above.