Don't Stereotype Me Poem by Ilana Friedman

Don't Stereotype Me!

Just because I'm a teenager…
I don't do drugs
I won't steal from your store
I don't hang out with the 'wrong crowd'
I don't need your dirty looks.

Just because I'm a teenager…
I don't skip out on school
I don't get awful grades
I'm not always bound to get into some sort trouble
And I do plan to have a future.

Just because I'm a teenager…
I have a right to my own thoughts and opinions
I don't need you watching my every move
I'm not as immature as you treat me to be
And I'm not as irresponsible as you think I am.

Just because I'm a teenager…
I have less attitude than you give me credit for
I'm not trying to make your life a living hell
I'm not ungrateful for what you have given me.

Just because I'm a teenager…
Why can't you give me room to breathe?
Why can't you trust me?
I need you to trust me
And I need you to treat me as your equal.
Just because I'm a teenager…



(written as part of an English class assignment)
12/13/04