Different Like That Poem by Linda Marie Van Tassell

I am not like others - I am different like that -
I refuse to just lie down and be a welcome mat.
There are moments when I will not turn the other cheek
and refuse to turn a deaf ear to the words they speak.

I am not like others - I am different I know -
and if I don't agree, I am quick to tell you so.
If I don't feel the same, I simply will not pretend.
I will not stand with a foe as though he were a friend.

I am not like others - I simply will not conform -
I will not be what I'm not, what is considered 'norm.'
I do not subscribe to the whims of society
nor the lark of religion nor earthly piety.

I am not like others - I just cannot understand -
I will not shudder nor cringe at another's command.
I will not be silenced, nor bound, nor gagged behind tear.
I shall not be a slave and be shackled out of fear.

I am not like others - I am different like that -
I rather like the contrast of being where I'm at.
The world is full of followers - leaders are too few -
so stand up and be yourself and to your heart be true.