A Coward

I don't want to cackle like my mother,
Or see the world through her eyes.
Only perceiving invisible threats,
Forever sifting people for lies.

I don't want to drink like my father,
Or sober up for a wife.
Only to abandon her in distress,
And then ruin her life.

I don't want to get married,
Or commit to someone I know,
I will only grow to despise,
Many years down the road.

I don't want children of my own,
Or to bear the pains of parenting.
I don't want blood on my hands,
For ruining another human being.