"The Villain"

You can cast me as your villain

But I refuse to play the part.

When all I did was step away

To protect my peace and heart.

And I didn’t do it all at once,

I’ve been stepping back for years.

Hoping someone would notice,

But only ending up in tears.

When out of desperation

Due to years of neglect

I finally reached out and did

My best to reconnect

I was called a liar.

I was called a thief.

I was told I was not important enough

To even make a scene.

I repeat – all I did was step away.

For once, I didn’t try.

I did not put down or bash or hate

I did not disappear, nor hide.

But your anger came so quick and fast.

Your ire escalated

To a point that I don’t understand

To a point where I feel downright hated.

I’m working on not feeling guilty

For the things you THINK I’ve done.

I try not to break down in tears

When I realize another relationship is gone.

I kept you informed of what was going on

But no one returned the favor.

And when I told you I had cancer,

your voices didn't even waiver.

No one ever called back

No one ever checked back in.

To ask how we were feeling

Or if we needed anything.

When the end came,

And THEN you wanted to speak.

To make sure you said what was on YOUR mind

So that YOU could have peace.

And I know this is the part where you blame me.

I know this is where your story starts.

The tale of the big, nasty relative

Who tragically broke your hearts.

So go ahead, make me the “bad guy”.

Go ahead, give me the blame.

But don't give me a guilt trip

When the villain walks away.