On Girlhood...

 

Leopard Ladies

Everything great about me 

came from a woman

Pouring into me, 

shaping, correcting me

Collecting me from my cocoon of safety

Encouraging me to fly, to try

Kind words washing over me 

like warm water

Salt of the earth preserving me

Through the drought 

I wouldn't be who I am if I wasn't a daughter 

A sister, teacher and a friend. 

My best friend tells me 

I have a beautiful mind

My sister can practically read mine 

Everywhere there are old ladies