Those Teen Years

Once I was a teenager
Cozy in my shell
Dipping toes in cold waters
Pulling back hesitantly

Once I was a teenager
Hopeful and self aware
Exploring the most unique labyrinth
Creating its path as walked

Once I was a teenager
Distraught, anguished broken blood cells
Years of tearful nights and days

Once I was a teenager
Lacking skills communication required
Friendships sailed rocky seas

Once I was a teenager
Looking forward to freedom
To taking the wheel steering forth
Where it took me I wanted to know

Once I was a teenager
Thank-goodness I won’t be,
Not ever again