You Never Knew Me
When I was young and carefree and
the world was at my command,
others stood beside me and
steadied my unsure hand, gave me
direction as if I was their own,
but you never knew me,
I lived my youth alone.
When I became older and needed
someone to care, to show me
things unknown, to guide me
through despair, others were
still beside me to help me be a man,
but you never knew me,
I’ll never understand.
When I fell in love and life was
so sweet and each time I stumbled
nearly facing defeat, others helped
me up and sent me on my way,
comforting me again and again
each time day was gray,
and still you never knew me,
it’s always been that way.
Now here I am grown and wise
cherishing all the others in my life
who helped me be what I am,
my friends, my neighbors and my wife,
while you suddenly write and apologize
for all the years of being away,
for memories not shared,
for dreams never made,
asking forgiveness and hoping
it’s not too late, a stranger you
say who is changed, who sorrows
for the things I’ve been through-
my only thought is...
I never knew you.
