Shame
It feels so strange and exhilarating
As I wonder what’s in store
Like a split pomegranate bursting with plump seeds
Leaking bright red rivulets of juice
I feel helpless as to the changes within
I feel ashamed and disconcerted
Like the day the budding flowers
Pushed forth my peach colored dress
Three ugly boys in school made a bet
As one dared to grab the unrestrained nascent fruit
I am still a child, yet my body says otherwise
I still play with Barbie dolls with my best friend
Ingrid is a year older – almost eleven years old
She made a big deal of her arrival
Yet also taught me to feel ashamed
Later I learned that it’s a curse
Bestowed on women for sins incurred
Seems fitting, a woman’s work is never done
I see women bearing great burdens
Along with nurturing a new life within
I really don’t like this business of growing up
My body growing hairs, and pillows
I dislike the looks I get while innocently walking by
Reminds me of those three mean boys at school
I cover my chest with a notebook, as I ignore them
.
