hard truths

i can't breathe when you say those words
with hushed voices huddled together in the kitchen
the walls are paper thin, you know,
i hear you, oh yes, i do
i know exactly what you're saying
i know exactly what this means.

but do you? if you ever needed a reason
to believe me just look at the ground
and see the happiness trampled there
because i know what this means
i feel like i will break.

i need independence not because 
i'm angry or because we fight
no, i need independence so i don't have to feel 
the guilt, the heavy weight of a family
everyday, in every moment.  
 
freedom from this responsibility
freedom to live.