A journey through the valley of backhanded compliments,
Through insecurities, brokenness, fear, and torment.
Yet, I am here.
For I am a warrior.
With a bruised face, broken bones;
Feeling alone, thoughts of death have crossed my mind.
Yet I fight,
For I am a survivor.
Body shamed, dented pride;
Soul chained soul to a pole,
Naked for the world to see.
Untold stories of my bloody past;
Sealed lips, scar heart.
Yet I tell my story,
For I am a narrator.
Today I say NO!
“No” to the demons telling me “You can’t”,
And “YES” to the woman I am.
Today I walk;
I walk through these storms unafraid;
Shaking off your nasty words,
I throw them back in your face.
Today, I say “No!”
“No” to being beaten by you;
I’ve packed my bags and move on.
I refuse to look back;
I will never be enslaved by you again.
Today! Yes, today;
I embrace my body and wear my flaws with pride.
Today, I break the mold your misogyny have formed.
Spreading the beauty my insecurities hid.
Today I am butterfly; no more a caterpillar.
Though I’ve journeyed;
Journeyed through the valley of the shadow of doubts,
I am here!
And this is where you give me the respect I deserve.
For I am a hero!
Authored by Beulah Nimene
Featured Picture by Detrisscia McLean
