Smile

Child, our daughter
Sit while we talk awhile
You’ve done no misdeed
Still they’ll put your life on trial

Born like your family
Far from any state of grace
You’re as perfect as the wind and sky
But they’ll treat like you’re out of place

This world is cold
The power’s with those who would judge and control
But we have a chance to make it right for you
This is what you’ll do

Show them how you smile
It’s only for a while
Take what you need
Leave them to bleed
Let them know bitter
While your revenge is sweet

Keep the secret
Pretending you’re just like them
Live there like a princess
In the kingdom of selfish men

Play their game now
Do what it takes to win
Steal it back all they keep from you
They refuse to look beyond your skin

And as you grow
You’ll gain from their knowledge but your heart will know
When the time is right to end the lie
You’ll know what to do
When the charade is through

Show them how you smile
It’s only for a while
Take what you need
Leave them to bleed
Let them know bitter
While your revenge is sweet

You might think that maybe they’re changing
You’ll pray that their hatred is waning
That’s when it hurts most to find
The story unfolds
And their cruelty’s exposed
You’ll be glad you’re not their kind

Show them how you smile
It’s only for a while
Take what you need
Leave them to bleed
Let them know bitter
While your revenge is sweet