Ballet Shoes
Johnny wears ballet shoes
the words came with a frown.
Why don’t you let me get the phone
and call your friend downtown?

Johnny wears ballet shoes.
He doesn’t like the way
the other boys play GI Joes
and baseball games all day.

John’s a little different.
Remember that last mess?
He ripped a hole right through the sleeve
while trying on your dress.

Johnny wears ballet shoes.
He’s even got a doll!
Why don’t you get your paper dolls
and give Renee a call?

Mother’s voice would tighten
each time John’s name was mentioned
but the gun and holster that I loved
was never even questioned.

Johnny wore ballet shoes.
I sometimes think of him.
He was just a little different
was that really such a sin?

Betty Camden