Strength

I was stronger, then, I think. Or I
Was somehow different, and I didn't need
The help that I need now. I wasn't shy,
But neither did my soul demand to feed
On constant company; I used to rise
Alone and spend my day as I saw fit,
Regardless of the many pairs of eyes
That might have looked at me. I must admit
I do not know if they were looking then,
But now I notice, and I hope they see
What I intend to show. But then again
I used to be so strong. I used to be.
Now I require, or I cannot live
The small approvals only others give.