It seems as if I owe you boys some thanks

Without you all and your flaws that drove me away

I may never have known what to be grateful for today

If you hadn’t answered for me assuming I didn’t know the answers and slyly dropped hints that my intellect was lesser than your own

I might have never known to love how he compliments my intelligence and my mind

If you hadn’t needed constant contact and attention because of your unrooted fear I would be as they had been

I might not appreciate his understanding that I’ll get back to him when I can

If you hadn’t suggested I be a housewife with a hobby to keep me entertained

I might not go weak whenever he shows off my career and the accomplishments I’ve obtained

If you hadn’t pushed your erection up against my back while your hands roamed and called it cuddling

I may never have realized the phenomenon that is my happiest sanctuary in the warmth of his arms

If you hadn’t tried to make me less, fearful of my confidence

I wouldn’t cherish how much he builds me up

If you all hadn’t tried your damndest to control me

I may never have realized how amazing it is to have someone who sets me free.

Someone who believes in me.

Thank you all, and I hope you find happiness.

I wonder what you learned from me.

©C O’Connor, 2018.