This...in a nutshell

Do I set my soul aside and submit to your expectations so I can feel accepted?
Do I hem my mouth shut for civility's sake so I can feel embraced?
Do I ignore your exclusion by becoming like you so I can feel loved?
I want you to love me because I'm separate, yet bound to you.
I want you to love me because I let my voice echo, even when it differs.
I want you to love me because I'm strong like a warrior, yet tender like a sheep.