The Auspicious Outcast
Once a blessing Dropped from heaven’s palm, A soft bundle of laughter, Of promise and prayer, Placed gently Into a family’s arms, A little princess. Years gather quietly. Care turns into calculation. “Start saving, she’s growing.” Love learns conditions, Affection wears caution, And protection slowly Builds its fences. Better guarded today Than sorry tomorrow. Her life is drafted On society’s tongue, On the trembling scale Of “What will people say?” Her wings are folded In the name of safety, Her voice trimmed In the name of love. “All for your good,” They assure her. Her worth is measured. Degree or career, Not for her dreams, But for a stranger’s approval. Polish the resume, Polish the smile. Maybe a smaller waist, A prettier picture, A softer voice. Hope she is chosen. Then arrives The ceremonial goodbye. Silk-clad and smiling, She is given away Like a prayer answered For everyone but herself. Relief floats in the air. The burden has found Another roof. A few...