A woman in all her 'phenominal-ness'

My father said education was not for me

As I pleaded with him to let me learn how to read

“It is the boys that are the bread-winners of tomorrow!

And you as a girl must proceeded to follow

The custom of eleven year old bride

A forty year old's pride: his seniority will guide, and provide."

Guide and provide?! GUIDE AND PROVIDE?!

He beat me until I succumbed to his stride

Abused me with words designed to dismantle my pride

The only thing he willingly supplied

Was sex (and of course the occasional mistress)

A life of pain and unhappiness

But there was no time to cradle my own distress

For I was too busy ensuring my children were fed and dressed

Tending to an HIV positive husband despite his ungratefulness

Earning a BA, MA and PhD in spite of the stress

Ovulating opportunity despite my being oppressed
AND YES!
I was too busy being a woman is ALL her 'phenominal-ness'

Sarah Kenyi © 2010

This poem is dedicated to all PHENOMENAL women who have overcome painful trials in grace and integrity. The poem was inspired by Tererai Trent in an episode of Oprah, her story was very moving. Watch her story here.