Showing Love For Self

I guess you expect me to be
The type of woman that you find in the Bible:
You know, meek, humble and kind.
The type that will walk two steps behind.

You want me to agree with everything you say
An opinion? I guess I can have one
As long as I keep it to myself.
You want to put me up on a shelf.

Like some kind of trophy.
But, you see, I can’t live like that.
Because I am a strong, black woman
And I deserve to be treated with respect.

You can’t talk to me any kind of way.
Treat me any kind of way
And expect me to stay.
No brother!

This sister is at the top of her game.
Those days when she held her head down
Because of the shame.
And just put up with your mess

Those days are gone.
Because today. Today.
I got a backbone.

And I also have two feet that I can use
To just walk away
Or to kick you in the ass, if I choose.

I am going to hold my head proud.
I will not bow down to any man.
The only one I will be bowing down to
Will be God. Understand?

So, when you find that woman
That, perfect woman
Who meets all of your expectations
Let me know
So I can give her a standing ovation.

As for me-
I can’t do it anymore.
I’ve been down so low
That I couldn’t look up for the pain.
I loved you unconditionally
And that love was in vain.

So today... Today?
I’m just concentrating on me.
And loving myself is at the top of my list.
As for you.
You no longer exist.

If I sound a bit harsh
Don’t take it the wrong way.
I’m just making my point.
I’m showing love for self today.