I Have Lived Poem by Harriet James

I have lived through being
Neruda's mermaid, feeling
Every cigarette burn.

I have lived through being
The African Princess,
Where the Prince turned
Back into a Lion.

I have lived through being
A ballerina, dancing gracefully
Upon the stage.

I have lived through trying
To be a poet, but frosted
Out not knowing rules.

I have travelled places
So beautiful, I still go
Back for more, no fool.

But best of all, I can say
I have lived,
Because of you.