They say,
“You’re a woman, so you should act like one.”
A WOMAN, that’s what they say.
They say,
“You’re attractive, but you could have been much more lovely
If you had pale complexity.”
That’s what they say.
They say,
“Your character is so strong. We need someone who conforms
To the norm not another stubborn.”
That’s what they say.
They say,
"You’re dressed in masculinity. Men preferred femininity.
Those who dress in skirts and dresses. Those who wear
Sweet smiles on their faces.”
That’s what they say.
They say,
“You're excessively dainty. That’s why
You are in solitary.”
That’s what they say.
But I say,
As a woman with conviction, I don’t need validations.
I say,
I am proud of my complexion. Colour does not define
Beauty as its own.
I say,
I am a strong, outspoken woman;
Honed by experience
Harnessed by time.
I say,
If my comfort does not suit your style,
I'll keep wearing what my heart desire.
I say,
An empowered woman will never settle for less.
That’s what I say, instead.
