Uprooting, challenging, ...

Scrolling through my archives today, found this poem I wrote almost 7 years ago, that still inspires me today!

Longing eyes, shackled spirit, bowed head- veiled
Subjecting to this oppression- I failed!
Standards, restrictions and stereotypes unfurl
Pride and ambitions subdued just because I am a girl!
Refuse to be subordinated or comply, I rebel
In my own quixotic world of justice and equality, I dwell!
I am proud of being a woman
For I am not prey to such ideologies inhumane
It makes me dance with joy..that I am different from the crowd
Soaring like a free bird through the stars and the happy clouds
I will not be invisible or silent for any long
This is my long suppressed voice, my song
Education, insight and courage have empowered
Certainly, I will not back down and be a coward
Will not bow to restrictions and patriarchy
Demolish this unjustifiable hierarchy
Tired of being subjected to your whims and fancies
Why associate femininity with only roses and pansies?
You can only lock away books, opportunities and rights
But cannot restrict my might or limit the power of my mind
Resilient, strong, empowered and tough
The journey has been rough, but now it’s enough.
Now, I spread my wings and far I fly
Not one of your plotted schemes can stop me, whatever you try.
The non-conformist spirit has been ignited
Spirit, soul and aspirations united
No more domination, blinding or imposing your desire
Freedom and happiness bring a world much higher.
Break o break all shackles and chains
Free myself from all the fears and pains
Burn up trepidation, violence and cruelty in flames
A world where I will not get the blame
For provoking an ‘innocent man’ to rape
As to why domestic violence did take shape
A world where I can decide
My sexual orientation would not subdue my pride!
Where I will not be labelled or commodified
Not known only as someone’s daughter, wife or merchandise.
Alas this world is only an illusion
Unless we act and shatter the delusion
Think, reflect and rewrite our destiny
Based on the tenets of equality and harmony
Sow the seeds of courage and freedom in our heart
Create a world that stands apart!