A Better Woman

Sometimes you don't want to fight to be who you are. Sometimes you just want to be someone easier to love.

I wish I were a better woman.
A proper one.
I wish I sat still and remembered to cross my legs and spoke with a sweeter voice.
I wish I could be sexy without being sexual.
I wish I wasn't always the first to raise my hand
I wish words didn't jump from the tip of my tongue.
I wish I could wait to be asked.
I wish that love made me shy instead of bold.
I wish I were more excited by the demure beauty of the princess than the bravery of the prince.
I wish I could only love men.
I wish I had fewer opinions.
I wish I could smile more and read less.
I wish my second grade teacher had been right and that Ritalin could have fixed me.
That there was a cure at all.
Or any way out,
Or at least a way to hide.
Because when men say,
"You're not like other girls,"
It's not a compliment.
It's an indictment.

Reviews

[Chris]

as to your final three lines - you've been around the wrong men ...you give a description of a person that is precious beyond words. A person to SHARE a path with - beside not behind. A voice to be heard and a mind that once awakened DEMANDS you BE aware of the person you are.

[Ashley Flynn]

That is one of the kindest things I've ever read. thank you.

[Chris]

It was meant... and it's true.

[Inject Positivity]

Wow!!! How brilliantly you have written this one, with lovely rhyming and a sweet concept.....You have maintained simplicity throughout the poem.....Full ratings!!!!

[samparks,sam]

Now I can say you are not only better but also nice, sweet women

[Misery]

Your poem displays honesty that does not flinch.
Honest, dear poet, is a trait of the Better Woman. SHE is there with you, I suspect that she has always been with you...quiet and patient, but always faithful.

[Samuel Dickens]

The seriousness of this poem shot way up when Ritalin was mentioned, and now I know what of what you' speak. My wife has ADHD, and let me tell you--it hasn't been easy. Chris, below, gives good advice. Thank you for sharing this.

[Kimberly Navarro]

Oh my. Ashley this is a lovely piece and I fit right into it. You have encouraged me to share one of my poems from my book, "The Heart of a Young Woman" the poem is called Nice Girls Finish Last. I will post on here. Please check it