by Leina Ussin
I am categorized
and characterized
without having materialized
into existence
I am woman
With society’s representations
I have been defined
and refined
Into the perfect feminine personification
But my self-perception
is only deception
For those unknown to me
You see
To carry the identification
“Woman”
Fits me with the description
That if I should refuse
I get no recognition
Woman, wife, mother, nurturer
Branded with labels
I’m expected to maintain
Along with the weight of the world
Keeping my emotions contained
I am woman
Never faltering
Forbidden from altering
The path already walked before me
For society has chosen
And this feminine pattern woven
To dictate my destiny
But now
I break free
I am woman
With the struggles of the world
I continue to survive
No longer looking for acceptance
Or tolerance
In your eyes
Disregarding the words you chose to
Identify
Me
No longer in your corner
Just settling for being content
I have come into my own
I have grown
I’m totally independent
My heart dictates my roles
My faith shall chose my goals
And I shall find acceptance
Within my own strength
Wife, mother, nurturer
That is me
Here I stand
I bare those labels
Because I can
A woman
Yes
I am
