Society's Suffocating Expectations

As girls we’re taught many things at a young age. 

We’re taught what’s considered “ladylike,” and what’s not, 

Keeping us in line to better fit society's mold.

We’re taught we’re meant to always look hot, 

Where our appearance is our gold.

We’re taught how to protect ourselves, 

From the dangers of the mystic night. 

We’re taught to not act out, but boys can.

Because boys will be boys, right? 

These expectations fill me with a burning fire of rage.

Growing up I’ve watched my peers change themselves. 

I’ve watched them try to fit society's mold of the ideal woman. 

I’ve watched them tear themselves apart, 

I’ve watched them break down their own hearts, 

Becoming a shell of the beautiful girls I knew. 

The girls who once shone as bright as the sun, 

The girls who I admired so dearly, 

Who laughed when they found something funny, 

Who wore makeup only because they wanted to. 

Who took nothing from a man or a woman. 

Those girls I once knew are still there, 

Just hidden underneath societies suffocating expectations. 

Authors note (please read): 

This poem is in no way, shape, or form supposed to diminish the things boys go through. I'd like to point out society has large expectations for them, too. It's so unfair how there are unspoken expectations put upon everyone and these expectations can be draining, and more importantly can even be fatal. And, if you are reading this right now, you are perfect the way you are, shining like the sun (or if you're like me and prefer the night) like the moon. Please never change.