You say, “act like an adult,” Then treat me like a kid. You say, “speak like an adult,” Then shut me up when I have opinions.

If anyone needs to act and talk like an adult, it's you, not me. Stop chasing the need to control me, I’m a person, just like you.

Before you think to say, “Like an adult,” think— Are you being a good adult? Are you showing me what it means to “Act like an adult,” “Speak like an adult”?

Or are you acting how you see me— A kid when I no longer am. I think of that little kid you like to control.

I’m independent and no longer need you to say, “I'm proud of you.” I’m proud of myself, so I no longer need you.
I am an adult— Unlike you.