Trigger Warning- Misogyny
i cried when stuck in rain,
the lightning flashes sending me running
terrified out of my wits
i heard older ladies laughing…
look at her, they mocked,
so old and still crying
when will she grow strong?
women are meant to carry the world,
we can’t afford to break
your tears are seen as an attack,
save them, don’t cry, learn to suffer in silence
for that’s tenacious
and tenacity is what’s attractive in women
but is it tenacity?
but is it weakness?
to acknowledge my fear, to acknowledge my needs,
to know my limits,
and yet try to be brave when needed to be
in the best way I know how
while still comforting myself?
how is that weak?
how is suffering in silence,
tenacious?
but standing up for ourselves
a sign of weakness?
the rain didn’t let go
the ladies didn’t stop
and yet I got home,
eyes red, but finally safe.
away from women who hold up patriarchy
away from a downpour which would make me sick
for I asked for help when I needed it
and the universe provided
for I had the courage to ask for it.
Author’s Note: Liked what you read? You can support the blog by sharing, reviewing, or using the QR below to pay what you will for the piece.
