I don’t want to be
the object of a man’s desire.
something pretty to look at,
a body before a mind.
I’m not here for the gaze
that lingers too long
or the compliments that come
laced with control.
What I want
is the same power,
the same doors wide open,
the same chances to rise
without having to shrink myself
to fit inside their comfort.
Let them look
but let it be with respect,
not hunger.
Let them see my strength
before my skin,
my mind
before their fantasy.
I am not here
to be wanted.
I am here
to be equal.



















