I'm the candlelight on a birthday cake,
Waiting for the right time to shine,
For someone to see my flames,
I hide in a dark room,
Playing dress-up in a mirror,
I'll never truly accept,

In my mom's face for approval,
At the feet of my fathers, I drag,
To feel included inside my little room,
I painted blue for the feelings,
I keep inside a slice of cake,
I sore I'll never taste,

Outside the dining room,
For permission to come in,
Staring at my aunties,
And uncles praising along,
While I wait to go inside,
Hoping they'll see the wax,
I burn every night to be loved,
And caught in their eyes,
When they bring out the cameras,
Singing happy birthday to everyone,
But me.



© DR