To Be Strong

I want to be strong, I tell the grass. I revel in the spiky feel of green on my naked feet. I want to be strong, to spring up like you do when someone walks on you. 

I want to be strong, I rage at the sky. The purple clouds sing to me, and lightening brightens the indigo sky. I want to be strong, for people to hear my voice like they hear your thunder. 

I want to be strong, I whisper to the wind. It takes my breath away, and stings my eyes. I want to be strong, to sway the crowds like you move the forest. 

I want to be strong, I sob to the ocean. The waters lap at my feet, almost mournfully. I want to be strong, to gently erode wrong opinions like you erode the great canyons and rocks. 

I want to be strong, I sing to the butterfly. Its feathery, soft wings flap softly in the hot air. I want to be strong, to be at peace with my beauty like you are at peace with yours. 

I want to be strong, I tell the grass, rage to the sky, whisper in the wind, sob to the ocean, sing to the butterfly. 

I am strong, I say later, much later. I am strong in all these. My opinions count, my voice is heard, I am at peace with my beauty, I spring back when I am hurt, I sway people with my words. 

I am a strong and fierce woman. Love me, hate me, you cannot drown me. 

Linda Peachey, 2020

Have a good week!!