Empowering the Wo in Men

I stand behind a glass case.
I am an object to behold.
For my submissive nature and gentler tones.

I tend to children, I tend to the injured.
I remain hidden behind a man.
For my lesser gender, and simple mind.

I cannot speak, my lips stitched close.
I should never be on my own.
For I am less in value, a delicate flower.

I don't know how to drive.
I am not good at math.
I just like 'chick flicks'.
I need gossip in my life.

If I'm blonde I'm dumb.
If I'm Hispanic I'm voluptuous.
If I'm black I have an attitude.

I will never be good at the workplace.
I don't deserve to be recognized equally.
My job is to be a mother at home.

I stand behind a glass case.
I am an object to behold.
For my submissive nature and gentler tones.

But I know I'm strong.
Because I've endured the years.
The term 'woman' does no longer degrade me.
It is no longer used to describe my self.

Rape, abuse, harassment, and inequality.
Issues that haunt me. 
But that won't be long because I know I'm strong.
And someday, everywhere I go, I will be seen as such.

For now I fight. 
To study, to work, to be a single mom.
I fight to cope with violence, to be recognized on my own.

Because unlike a delicate flower, I don't wither.
And my beauty is always radiant.
Give me hell, but I've seen worse.

The fight has been long.
It's tiring.

And if I could cut off the reports on domestic violence,
if I could cut off the news of abuse, and death on my sex,
if only the stereotypes would vanish,
then the world be a better place. 

If I could have one wish granted, then it would be this:
for the world to understand that the 'Wo' in 'Men' is nothing shameful. 

Comments

Additional Resources

Get AI Feedback on your poem

Interested in feedback on your poem? Try our AI Feedback tool.
 

 

If You Need Support

If you ever need help or support, we trust CrisisTextline.org for people dealing with depression. Text HOME to 741741