defiance is pure

the mere act of saying “no”

when others put a gun to your head &

want nothing more than your unmitigated

acquiescence,

is a moment that builds up the skeleton inside

it stands up against all odds

it does not waver in the harshest of winds

it does not convert itself to any tame rendition

it is focused & deliberate

it is as steadfast as a tightened fist in the air of

militant, violent, ceaseless

oppression &

like a concrete statue that is still left standing

after the hurricane has torn up all that encircles it

like taking a carrot grater to an unfortunate

carrot,

you stand defiant

you stand beautiful

you stand

honest.