WOMEN ARE NOT BRAVE

After a long day

Of hunt or be hunted in the wild, 

Our animals soak up the last bits of sunlight

For warmth

For comfort

For rest

When women step into the light 

We are told, we are brave 

We are given a day 

A day with no shame? 

A day to share pain?

A day 

To feel safe? 

Women are not brave 

To assume we are brave would mean that we must exist in other states, 

In other frames

Of mind 

There is no other 

There is only flesh.

Blood 

Joy 

Tears

Love 

Just here 

A being 

Is that enough?

I’m listening. 

Are you? 

Let me ask you again because your answers, simply,

are not enough.

Let me tell you what’s up 

Women are 

Powerful

Captivating 

Creators 

Curious 

Intuitive

Women are 

Exactly who they want to be

Are you listening?

Women hold you accountable because they hold themselves accountable 

Women tell you the truth because it is the truth they want from you! 

Within you 

Expose you

Unfold you 

Reveal the creases

The wrinkles 

The damp imperfections

Are you pressed yet? 

My shirt drapes my body

Just as yours does

But when you look into the mirror 

Do you see my skin?

My chest as it breathes?

My joy? 

My fear? 

My love?

For my sisters?

Your children? 

His mother? 

Their friends ?

And our brothers? 

Do you see me? 

Tell me

When can I pull my eyes from the sides of my head

And march forward 

Tell me 

When can I rest ?

Are you beside me? 

Did you find the light ? 

Are you hunting? 

Show me where the sun is. 

Are you hiding ? 

Women are not brave 

We are surviving 

I do not want a prize 

For using my voice 

For sharing my pain 

I want my life 

To be mine

I want you 

To see me 

In you 

I want that light 

To feel like solace 

Is it warm yet?