Requite

These years, they are taking away
bit by bit of your life;
the same years that watch me grow
in and out of your sheltered side.

The way it flows, this inevitable course,
we can't stay in those roles anymore;
so go on and lean on me now
even as I'm learning to be strong.

As much as you love me, please
do not shield me from your pain.
Know that, the much that I love you
it hurts all the more not being there.