(no subject)

Sometimes I hate being a woman -
hate the pain and the mess,
hate the way people are startled
that I am capable,
hate wearing a bra
(hate needing to wear one, because
it hurts if I don't)
hate the shock when I shaved my head
(but you're a GIRL)
hate the expectations of uncomfortable shoes
and a false face,
hate the panicky realization
that the stores are all closed
and I have no tampons.
I hate walking alone in a strange town
and being afraid -
I hate that people tell me I should be afraid
so I walk alone in strange towns anyway.

But sometimes I love being a woman -
I love that I am allowed to cry at movies,
I love the rythm in my hips when I walk,
love the curl in my hair,
love to do the unexpected,
love to surprise people.
I love the strength in my hands
and secretly my breasts are the only part of me
I never thought was ugly.