by braveandrecklessblog

Warrior Women Anthem: Aurora Phoenix & Kindra M. Austin

warrior woman face up

Yes, I know my place—

and it’s not in the shadows of darkened corners,

slumped over and bleeding, weeping.

It’s not in the kitchen, barefoot and pregnant or otherwise.

It’s not in the hospital having bones reset, or split lips stitched.

Yes, I know my place—

push me down, drag me out,

and I will get up on my two feet

because my place is to stand among my Warrior Sisters.

 

I have been out of place

cowering, confused by calamities

conforming, if only for moments

to lessened expectations

I have been out of place

biting my lip

silencing biting retorts

eviscerating commentary

on the lot I was caste

I have been out of place

head shamefully bowed

hiding my brilliant plumage

muffling scintillating wit

lest I overstep, overshadow

narrowly defined confines

 

Shed used skin—toss it away

and open eyes, newborn light.

Hold on heart, the time is now—

cast aside those ropes,

take up your banner.

Riot for your life.

 

it has been said

I am out of line

dare I speak too loudly

of my truths

my place is colored riotous rainbows

outside your compliant lines

it has been said

I am out of line

dare I dance with abandon

in the face of obsolescence

my place is scented midnight jasmine

in the garden where my good

overgrows obsequious evils

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