My Bold Lipstick

My body, my rules

Was not what I was taught 

You’re tall, you’re big

Too dark, too loud

I heard whispers

And Snickers and taunts

Words of caution 

Delivered with love

They mean well 

You’ll be a woman soon

Hide, be small

Find yourself a comfortable corner 

My bright lipstick, my response 

I’m here, see me

Formidable, loud, strong 

Everything I wasn’t supposed to be