I am a shadow in the background of life.
I am a memory that gives you a fright.

I watch from behind as life carries on,
I'm dragged here and there - I am only a pawn.

I have no say over who decides what;
I may only flinch as fear clenches my gut.

All of my life I've existed back here,
Here in the background where bad things linger near.

I'm treated like something not wanted around:
A virus, or spider or big, scary clown.

I'm not all that bad, though I do have my quirks.
I will not deny that I am hard work.

I don't ever let go - I always hold on,
But not in a good way, once these things are gone.

I live in the past. I don't like the change.
I only wish things would return to past days...

Times were good then. I was young and carefree.
Now I've no innocence; I don't feel much glee.

But so what? I'm sure everyone has those days.
Come to think of it, maybe it is just a phase.

I am a shadow. I come and I go.
I exist in light only. At least that's good to know.

The light brings you joy, and it offers you sight.
But then again, shadows do put off a fright...

Never mind! Deep down, I'm good at heart.
I just need to find a good place to start.

I don't show any fear. That must count for good!
But still, I channel that fear into you when I could.

I know that's not right. I know I should stop.
I guess it's become of what you have dropped.

I'm in the backseat of all of your flaws.
I'm the one who takes the blow of those broken laws.

I'm dragged around with you, I'd leave if I could -
Sometimes you don't treat me as well as you should.

I remember all the things that have happened in the past.
I have never forgotten when I am downcast.

I try to help out. I come out of my shell,
But when I do, you don't seem to want a bit of my help.

You say I'm a nuisance - at least to me, it sounds like.
You say I'm unwanted when my energy spikes.

So yes, I lash out. I am mean to you.
But I aim to protect, and that is the truth!

I don't want to hurt you. I just wish you would see
That everyday I'm trying to help you succeed.

But yes, I hurt you. So maybe it's okay
That I fade into shadows day after day.

I know I scare you, but I fill you will glee,
For stars exist only in darkness, you see.

So keep fighting me, and never give in!
Don't let me hold you back! I want you to win.