It's been a while
I'm not the girl you knew before
You look surprised
But your shadows reach me nevermore
I've been meaning to tell you
But I guess it's plain to see

Don't be mad
This is the stronger side of me
It ain't bad
I found a brand-new way to breathe

Careful with your pride
That's the weight that held me down
Had to take my spirit back
I refused to sink and drown

I thought you'd be happy
I found the one truth I need
Why so mad?
It's just the stronger side of me

It took a long, long climb to reach here
It took a brave, brave soul to rise
It took too many broken promises
Too many empty tries
Don't be surprised, don't be surprised

If I speak a little louder
If I stand when you are wrong
If my steps are reaching higher
I've been silent far too long
And if you see that I've shifted
Don't take it personally

Don't be mad
I've just uncovered all of me
That ain't bad
I found a fearless kind of free

Oh, it took a long, long road to see this
It took a brave, brave heart to stay
I endured too many sleepless nights
Too many words betrayed
Don't be surprised, no, don't look so surprised

If you were my friend
You'd want to meet me again
If you were worth my while
You'd be glad to watch me smile

I don't expect your sorrow
I'm too busy finding grace
Look at me
Finally, I found me

I don't need your permission
Not a nod to what I say
I won't be perfect
But I'm braver every day
Now my heart is open
Now at last I'm free

Don't be mad
This is the stronger side of me
That ain't bad
I found a brighter way to be

Don't be mad
It's just a brand-new time for me