Poem by Daisy, age 12

I never knew how much this life was hurting me
Never knew if I talked back to some body
Never knew what kind of punishment would hit
Never knew why I did it anyway

Why couldn’t I just be regular?
Why couldn’t I just say “O.K.”
Why didn’t I give it up
Why couldn’t I just listen
Why did I have to argue
Why couldn’t I just say “O.K.”

Life would be more easier if 
I just listen to the teacher and state
But no, I don’t want to give it up
I want to argue and hear, “shut up”
I want my own way even if it’s my life

That’s why it’s so important that I should 
Stop and think
But no, I don’t think before I open my mouth
Then the anger comes out and hits someone

And then afterward I’m sorry
Tears come down and then I cry.