Fed on a steady diet of regulations and norms
Presented in every manner and form
From what to say, how to, to whom, and when
From how to be seen and not heard as a woman
Sartorial choices, type and level of adornment,
Narrowly defined, giving way to resentment-
Navigating the narrow alleys of behavior acceptable
She grew up, often confused, sometimes unable
To reconcile the dictats of her heart and mind
Sometimes a common ground she simply could not find
Between what her heart thought was right, what the mind refused
The results of this quandary left her no longer enthused
Over the prospect of trying to follow her heart’s desire
She thought is was best to douse such a fire…
**
Ah…but the fire that smolders deep inside
Its heat makes itself known, it is impossible to hide
So her heart’s desires that challenged many social norms
Could not be prevented forever from taking form
The urge was powerful, and she did learn
To ignore the society at many different turns
And follow her heart, because she realized
The number of people who she feared would criticize
Her choices were few, not many people cared
About what she did, she had been needlessly scared..
**
Now in her thirties, an independent woman is she
Her personality is a reflection of her individuality
She dresses the way she pleases, oh yes, she is loud
She sings to herself, she can swing with the crowd
There is but one thing she refuses to wear-
The weight of others’ expectations, on this, she is clear!
(Image source: http://www.fearlessmotivation.com/2015/09/23/10-of-the-most-powerful-inspiring-quotes-on-expectations/)
Passion...unbridled 