I pay high prices to learn my lessons 

That others manage to grasp in seconds

I always choose others before myself 

Putting them on the very top shelf 

 

I question the lack of a smile on my face 

Is it lost? Did I misplace?

When will I protect my peace?

I want to own it, not lease 

 

I sold my tranquility to the first in line 

Can't grow a backbone, not even a spine 

I want to choose myself now and forever 

Please don't ask me for more, don't be a beggar 

 

I'll keep them all at arm's length 

Time to build up my inner strength 

I see now we can't live equally 

I must do what's best to live peacefully