When Girls Grow up

When girls grow up


we do not look forward to stares and catcalls
We do not look for a stranger's opinion on our growing body parts
we do not appreciate the reality of being a woman
We do not accept the fact of our own incapability
We do not enjoy the fear of rape


We do learn to use keys as weapons
We do walk in packs
as safety in numbers is the only safety we experience
We do learn that no means yes
We do jump at shadows


We aren't carefree children
We aren't wise adults
We aren't considered legal


Yet


We are asking for it
We did lead them on
We wore it for attention

We are just girls growing up.