To Western Woman

When you look at me
All that you can see
is the scarf that covers my hair

My words you can't hear
because you're too full of fear
mouth gaping
all you do is stare

You think its not my choice
in your own liberation rejoice
You think its I'm uneducated
trapped, oppressed and subjugated
You're so thankful that you're free
But non-Muslim woman you've got it wrong

You're weak and I'm strong
For I've rejected the trap of man
fancy clothes, low neck, short skirt
those are the devices for pain and hurt
I'm not falling for that little plan

I'm the person with ideas and thought
I'm not for sale, I can't be bought
I'm me, not a fancy toy
I won't decorate anyone's arm
nor be promoted for my charm
There is more to me than playing coy

Living life as a balancing game
mother, daughter, wife, nurse, cleaner, cook, lover
and still bring home a wage

Who thought up the modern freedom?
Where man can love 'em and man can leave 'em
This is not free, but life in a cage
Always jumping to a male agenda
competing on his terms

No job share, no creche facilities
no feeding and nappy changing amenities
No time off for menstrual pain
hormones they laugh what a shame
No equal pay
equal skill your job can always fill
No promotion unless you're sterilized
No promotion unless you're sexually terrorized

And this is liberation?

...Non-Muslim woman you can have your life
Mine, it has less strife
I cover and I get respected
surely that's to be expected
for I won't demean the feminine

I won't live to male criterion
I dance my own tune
and hope you see this very soon
For you're sake wake up and see the light
Are you so sure that you are right?

-Anonymous