Standing up for Yourself—an Underdeveloped Movement

Boys are always asking me

If I “think I can handle” them

Asserting their insecurity

As if I haven’t seen it yet

What do you even mean?

Of all my worries, you are the least

My eyes have cried enough water

To drown the world of ungratefulness

But yours have been dry your whole life

Can you handle this gentleness?

Do not make the mistake of thinking I am

Incapable of “handling” what you are

Avoiding intimidation from a child

Has never been that hard

I think the better question to ask

Is can you handle me?

When a woman wins an argument

Will you forfeit and leave?

When her voice is louder, will is stronger,

With confidence more intact—

Are you sure that you can you handle that?

When she can change your mood,

Change your stance,

Move your feet when you don’t dance—

Turn you on and drive you mad

Leave and make you want her back

Are you sure you can handle the girl

Who rotates her world with her own two hands

Are you sure you can handle the girl

Who doesn’t need a man?

Doesn’t wait to be told that she’s worthy

Before she believes she is

Doesn’t shrink herself into someone

A tiny box would fit

Yes, I can handle your heart,

Soul, spirit, and mind

But sweet boy I am not sure that you

Are able to handle mine.