Unapologetically Me

Won't bend to fit in, I don't care,

They say it's not proper, not the way,

But I stand tall, come what may,

And I'll keep slaying, every single day.

Society's rules, so hard to break,  

Beauty defined by what they make.  

Sparkling, with a style that's unique,

Crushing their conventions, with a fierce and sleek technique.

They say I look good with long hair and a braid,

Makeup on, like a masquerade,

But I know I'm flawless, either way,

You won't break me, I won't sway.

In braids, in curls, hair long or short or with it bare,

I'm more than what they see out there.

Cut my hair, they start to glare,  

Why can't I breathe in this toxic air?  

Judging eyes and whispered lies,  

Can’t they see through my disguise?

Don't you dare question my parents' skills,

They raised a queen, and I'm making my own deals.

I'm not rebellious, I'm just unapologetically me,

And if you can't handle that, then step aside, please.

Calling it a phase, or a teenage tantrum too,

But my identity's a spark, that's glowing strong and true.

You think it's just a fad, a fleeting little thrill,

But I'm not a momentary madness, I'm a fire that fulfills my will.

I don't become a boy just 'cause I chop my locks,

My identity's still fire, no matter the hair on my blocks.

Now I’ve grown to love my flowing strands,  

Not because you won, or heeded your demands,  

I love each version, I’m perfect, you see,  

Long or short, it’s all just me.

You're making a big ol' deal 'bout nothing, calm down,

I won't conform to your patriarchal nonsense, I'm wearing my crown.

So, keep your opinions, keep your doubts and fears,

I'm a queen, and I'm shining bright, through all my tears.

Every flaw and every scar,  

They make me who I really are.   

I’m perfect, perfect, can’t you see?  

In every way, I’ll always be.

Don’t need their nod to feel complete,  

Struggling through, I won't retreat.

You don’t have to let me down like that,  

I’m perfect, no matter where I’m at.

They speak of labels that just don’t fit,  

Casting doubts where they don’t have a bit,  

Labels and whispers, they don’t define,  

The strength and grace that’s truly mine,  

My choice is mine, and that’s enough,  

I’ll shine bright, even if it’s tough

So let them talk, let them say what they choose,  

I’ll stand my ground, I’ve got nothing to lose.