You lit the room with your crooked grin Then blew it out like a candle in the wind One moment soft The next one sharp I never knew which side you'd spark Flipping switches Casting shadows Mom You were a storm I couldn't follow I was the anchor You were the tide You tried to be my friend But I was your guide Your words could cut or cradle my heart Manipulation dressed up as art A smile so sweet A voice so kind But I saw the cracks you tried to hide I was a child But I grew fast You played the present I HELD THE PAST! Flipping switches Casting shadows Mom You were a storm I couldn't follow I was the anchor You were the tide You tried to be my friend But I was your guide Whiskey whispers and pills in the dark Your laughter echoed Then fell apart You called me wise beyond my years But all I wanted was your arms NOT YOUR TEARS!