(Dedicated to my three beautiful daughters)
I wake up to the reality of his foot just inches from my face
I have just enough liberty to adjust my eyes. I quickly glance left, then right
And I realize in that instant, that I am down
I dare not try to rise up but keep myself low to the ground
I do not want to stir emotion
If I move subtly, slowly, I can find a comfortable space
And I realize in that instant, that I am down
Speak, but do not speak about what truly haunts you
Laugh, but just don’t encourage too much attention
Listen to all that is said, let it go to your head
And I realize in that instant, that I am down
Overwhelming to come to the realization that I have never truly risen up
An impostor, fighting for everyone else but herself
A facade of such great strength and inspiration
A fool who is truly frightened by her own shadow
And I realize in that instant, that I am down
There is a fine line between selfishness and self dignity,
