Today was my fifth birthday.
Mom and dad each told me
they love me.
The boy next door gave
me a flower.
My best friend came,
along with others.
I smiled because it felt
good to be five.

Today was my eighth birthday.
Mom and dad still told
me they love me.
There was Disneyland
and presents from friends.
The boy next door told me
he liked me.
I smiled because it felt good to be eight.

Today was my tenth birthday.
Mom smiled and gave me a hug.
I got a card in the mail from dad
filled with sorrow and regret.
The boy next door smiled and gave me a letter.
I hadn't heard from my
best friend in a while.
I frowned because i missed her.

Today was my twelfth birthday.
Mom surprised me with a cake.
My dad snuck to my window
to apologize.
The boy next door retold the story of how i tried to kiss him on the cheek.
My best friend is long gone.
I cried because i had no one.

Today was my sixteenth birthday.
Dad's back but there's no 'I love yous'.
The boy next door is
across the city.
My best friend came back
but she doesn't even know me.
I cried today because
no one loves me.