Survival should not cost them their souls

They teach her how to be afraid
But not how to dream.

She grows up full of apologies,
For taking space, being seen, existing.

He learns early
Softness invites judgement, mockery, cruelty;

Tears are a weakness
To be rid of with fists and shame.

Her body is the problem
And so are his feelings.

Be careful, smaller, polite;
A woman’s lot in life –

 

Be strong, silent, stone;
As a man must be.

Let’s raise one half to be afraid,
And the other to be empty

When her back bends, call it devotion 
When his silence deepens, call it strength.

You wonder why the kids are hurting
While teaching them how to be everything but whole

Teach them both
Her body is not a crime
Nor is his heart a weakness
Survival should not cost them their souls.