That Should Have Been Me

It should have been me in a wicker basket

My old torn and battered bed.

Being held by a father that loved me

Instead of wishing all my life I was dead.

It should have been me wrapped in love

By parents that truly cared.

Held in the arms of protection

Instead of living every day scared.

It should have been me with proud parents

Bragging of my wit.

Instead of hiding all my accomplishments

For fear of being hit.

It should have been me standing proud

Not wanting for anything.

Instead of crying every night alone

Not knowing what tomorrow would bring.

It should have been me with loving parents

Tucking me safely in at night.

It should have been me with a loving father

Trying his best to make everything right.

It should have been me with a loving mother

So proud to have me as her own.

It should have been me with supportive parents

I need them now I’m grown.