#GrowingUpAGirl

From a young age I am taught the way this world works.

My shorts can't be too short and my bra strap can never show.

Yet your pants can sag to the point where I can see your boxers?

I can't get home too late or it becomes too dangerous for me.

But you can wander the streets at all hours?

I am told that I should look like the models I see on TV,

yet when I do I'm told I'm trying too hard.

Who do you think i'm trying for? It's certainly not you.

I am encouraged to put on makeup to hide my flaws

but am then told that it's "false advertising".

Why am I a product?

I am #GrowingUpAGirl

in a world that doesn't see my worth.

I am #GrowingUpAGirl

in a society where I am shamed for who I am.

I am #GrowingUpAGirl

in a place that is telling me how to look, how to feel and how to think.

I am #GrowingUpAGirl

in a world dominated by men.

But no more.

From now on I will #BeAWoman who wears what she wants.

I will #BeAWoman who learns to defend herself.

I will #BeAWoman who tries hard for only herself.

I will #BeAWoman who looks good for herself.

I will #BeAWoman who values her worth.

I will #BeAWoman who looks, feels, and thinks for herself.

I will #BeAWoman who is in charge of herself.

I will #BeAWoman who teaches young girls.

I will #BeAWoman- and I will be proud of it.