I was never taught to
Paint my face with makeup
Never gave a thought to
Why the other girls and
Ladies looked more pretty;
I was busy twirling
Through the puddles, gritty
Fingers clutching branches
That were swords and spears for
Battle, taking chances
Leaping onto creek shores,
Hurling mud at brothers;
I was happy in my
Body till my mother
Told me every reason
It was unladylike.