The Journey Inward

I stand on one foot
And experience balance,
Feel how my body adjusts
To accommodate my wishes.

I point my toe,
Extending it out and away from me,
Refusing to be boxed in and kept small,
Reaching and pushing and growing.

My belly tucks in,
Aligning with my hips,
Opening up not for others,
But for my own pleasure.

My breasts protrude,
Not to capture the male gaze,
But rather to raise them up,
In recognition of my uniqueness.

I spread my arms wide,
One down, one up,
To take up space
And proclaim my rights.

My head tilts backward,
Upward,
Exulting in my freedom,
Soaking in the love.

I am Woman,
Standing on tip toes,
Hips thrust forward,
Head thrown back.
I am free.


Photos:  Evergreen, CO.  6.29.23 by LA