Look At Me For Me

I'm no longer a child,
so don't call me a kid.
I've grown up real fast,
so don't call me little.
I've been through a lot,
don't say I won't understand.
My life has been hard,
don't say it has not.
You judge me by looks.
You judge me by age.
Just open your ears and listen.
I have plenty to say.
You don't have to agree,
you don't have to like it,
but just listen.
Then decide.