Your Congratulations

I wouldn't have compromised as much
so much of myself for fear of
having you hating me
I would've sung so loudly
It would've cracked myself!
I became self conscious
of anything exuberant
I wouldn't have sold myself short
I wouldn't have kept my eyes
glued to the ground
if I had've known my invisibility
would not make a difference
I would've run around screaming proudly
at the top of my voice
I wouldn't have said said it was fat luck
I'm talking idealism here
I would not have so self deprecating
I wouldn't have cowered
for fear of having my eyes scratched out!
I wouldn't have cut my comfort off
I wouldn't have feigned needlessness
I would not have discredited
every one of their compliments
it was your approval I wanted
Your congratulations