She is me

Look at me!
Its what you say,
but how could I have helped it?

You are me.
Were those my eyes before the salty tears of disappointment?
Was that my smile before it learned to lie?
Your movements are so sure.
Your voice is free from doubt.

Can I keep you from becoming me?
Can I avoid seeing my tears reflected in your eyes?
Maybe nothing can; maybe nothing should.
It is the beautiful and awful truth of life.

You will learn; and learn you must.
I'll be here, little woman.
Some day I'll look into your eyes and know -
You are me.