Strong Independent Woman
People call me a strong independent woman. So why don’t I feel like one?
I do not feel
like I’m living my best life
when I am microwaving
a meal full of preservatives
to eat alone.
I do not feel
feminine
when my birth control is doing
horrible things to my body
and my brain.
I do not feel
respected
when a superior
calls me ‘adorable’
at work.
I do not feel
empowered
with my clothes strewn around me
trying to find something to wear
that makes me look approachable.
I do not feel
strong
when I am crying in my car
after my debit card gets declined
and I’m doing my best.
I do not feel
hope
when I see entire organizations
built on echo chambers
of whiteness.