The first of three girl childs

born of my pop and mum.

I would be the quiet, idealistic one,

the one who dared not stir the pot,

but rather enjoyed observing a lot,

paying particular attention

to the tangible tension

between the sexes

on an almost daily basis.

The women won handily,

ruling the home rather easily.

This all conveyed to me-

directly and

subconsciously-

the strength needed

of a girl child

constantly

to escape vulnerability

within a world

fixated on her sexuality,

rarely her intellectual ability;

a world where girl child’s

heart and brain

are discounted,

deemed second class citizens.

Hence, Girl Child,

either rule or be consumed;

with no apology nor permission,

go for yours or be floored.

No middle ground

here

to be found.

Stand tall,

to a boy child,

never ever

play small, roll over or fall!

Not just for you,

but for all your Sisters too!

 

Written in honor of the fourth annual International Day of the Girl Child, 11 October 2016