They asked me to make an effort.

To look like something that looks like them.

Something acceptable.

For them.

I tried to understand their point of view.

I even lowered my eyes in front of their power.

But I used to have bite.

Now, they’ve taught me how to speak.

How to smile.

How to stand up straight.

They dressed me in gestures that aren’t mine.

I thought that was growth. Evolution.

But the more I pretended, the more I lost the thread.

The real one.

The original one.

What you admire now,

it’s no longer me.

I’m your result.

Your creature.

What you want to see.

I’m no longer one.

I’m not the other.

I’m merely adapted.

Now, look.