I am no beggar;
I take no handouts.
I am no saint;
I sin.
I am not steel;
I bend, and break
When tried, and tried again.

I am no dog,
I do not take
A beating and still love.
I am no quitter!
This is my vow
That I will rise above.

I am no mom.
You’re not my kids,
Though you act like you are.
I am a child,
Just like you,
And my problems fill the jar.

I am a helper.
I do my best.
To listen and respond.
I am no shadow.
I don’t deserve
To be the only one.