Micro aggressions…

I shake off the remark, the subtle insinuation

The display of feigned solidarity for my situation

I shrug off the insult cleverly disguised

Reinforce my thicker skin, as advised

By well-wishers, mentors, managers, administrators

To keep my sanity in a world that caters

To the ego of men in power everywhere

I cannot complain about treatment unfair

I am sensitive to constructive criticism

I have to blur my lens of feminism

This is what they tell me- it’s all in my head

I should focus on being more pleasant instead

I should not voice what I think I need

I should feel fortunate to be in my shoes indeed

**

I am jaded listening to this constant refrain

I have learnt to ignore that nagging pain

I allow some tears in my office behind a closed door

Quickly regain composure, though wounded to the core

I can do this, strength within myself I shall find

I tell myself, as I channel my focused mind

Into producing high quality work yet again

This is how my heart and mind I train

The only tool I have is my fortitude

That will determine my altitude..