Papa Told Me

Papa told me you’ll never amount to anything.
You’re dumb, fat, stupid, and lazy.
You will be nothing.
Then he handed me the screwdriver and told me to work.

Papa told me you’ll never know anything.
You’re ignorant, untalented, illogical and too romantic.
You will be nothing.
Then he shoved a book and my face and told me to read.

Papa told me you’ll never have anyone.
You’re selfish, childish, idealistic and irrational.
You will be nothing.
Then he pushed me into the world and told me to leave.

Papa I am something.
I am a writer, a poet, a teacher, a student.

Papa I do know things.
I know the proper way to cite an article, the origination of the moon, how to play the guitar.

Papa I am not alone.
I have Jeannette, Becky, Matt, Krystle, Jessica, Ryan, Ann, Garrett, Andrew.

Papa you were wrong.