Growing up

I am an adult
Only when they want me to be.
I am a child
When it suits them.
I am actually in between
But that won't be acknowledged.
I am me.

I am old enough to look after myself
When they can't be bothered to
I am too irresponsible
When I want to grow up.
I am growing as a person
But they can't handle that.
When can I be me?

I'm too young for this
Too old for that.
Old enough to responsible for others
But not me.
Too mature for this
Too childish for that.
This is me.

Childish sometimes
Mature others.
Smiling, happy, bouncy -
Glitter and pigtails.
Cool, sophisticated, calm -
Make up and hairspray.
Which is me?

The truth?
All of it.
I am me.

1999 evk