In her shoes

 

Am I not a woman?

For the blood boils in my veins

like the heat and power

of one who has had nothing

and nothing to lose anymore.

These mirrors shine around me every day

But these mirrors reflect the untruth;

They reflect me not

but every scar that used to be hidden

under strands of long hair.

They stare.

If you choose to cover your head,

they choose you;

Because everyone wants to know

what’s underneath; tear it off

with their sharp words,

Another victim of abuse;

Have I the right to breathe?

But you know, now I can walk alone

Doesn’t my skin burn your conscience

when you touch me there?

Next time, I'll do more

than reach out for my phone;

I'm already black as a stone,

How much darker can it get?

Kicking myself out;

I was only a child

And you almost drowned me

into the deep end.

Now I swim in rough waters;

Once exposed but

never again afraid to be exposed - 

For I am a woman,

and for you,

my immodesty will never change.