Many Years Ago

Many Years Ago

A woman looks upon her childhood and stares aghast.
When did this wonder of  life change so?
How would she explain this to herself?
A life so extraordinary.
She closes her eyes and lets her mind drift.
Sadness abounds.
Yet so do adventures and marvels.
Can she reckon the two?
A childhood so long and painful, yet so full of happy memories
is not what she expects to see.
She tells herself quietly,
"How you need the acceptance of those who delight in tormenting you."
When did she stop needing this regard?
When did she grow up?
It seems like only yesterday.