I don’t have to accept your version of me,

Your interpretation of my reality

I don’t need your eyes to see

I can refuse

 

Don’t have to consent to your treatment of me,

Your understanding of how I am

That is the way things used to be

I’m not related to Uncle Tom or Uncle Sam

 

I don’t have to take your word for it,

Have no interest in your deals

Your mouth does not speak for me

I discern how I feel 

 

Don’t have to receive what you give

You don’t know what I need

There is not just one way to live

No reason for me to concede

 

I am full, overstuffed

Up to here

I’ve had enough

 

I won’t make room

Can’t back down

And ain’t gone’ let nobody turn me ’round

 

I have a say in who I’ll be

You may be excused

I don’t have to make room for you 

I can refuse