It is strange,
People change our lives
In imperceptible ways.

Even those we've never met,
Can have a great influence.

Looking back,
Now I can see,
All my life was just shaped,
By the people around me.

Kind, loving people,
To whom I defer.

People who care,
And who never were
Cruel, mean, or horrid,
Careful to show,
Their kinder side to me,
So I may never know

Any example
Of how to behave,
That is anything but the very best,
Each pain I forgave.

As I look back,
I can't thank enough,
Those people who shaped me,
Through times that were rough.