I'M Sorry, Brother Poem by Katherine Coolage

I'm Sorry.
I'm sorry for my failings as a sister.
I'm sorry for all of the things I didn't do
And for all the things I did.
I'm sorry for the times when I could have helped
but didn't
And the times when I should have helped
but wouldn't
And the times I was too afraid to help
Leaving nobody to lend you a hand
And you, the little brother
To fight for yourself
Battles that weren't yours
I'm sorry for the things I said
Some of them deserved
And others not so much
I'm sorry for the times you took the fall
In place of my mistakes
And the times you stood up for me
Bringing burdens on yourself
When I don't do the same for you
I'm sorry I'm not there to wipe your tears
When you cry alone
Or to cover your eyes
When you see the world's cruel truths
I'm sorry I haven't gotten to know you as well as I'd have liked
And held your hands as you took your first steps
I hide away from the truths you so boldly confront
And you,
Who act as a shield for me
Always make sure that I am safe
You praise me for not doing wrong
Even though I haven't done right
And I'm always reminded of how lucky I am
To be your sister
I'm sorry I haven't helped you more