Women Poem by Kandayia Ali

Every tone, texture, frame, physique; almond shaped, round, exotic, unique; long hair, medium, short, shaved, or even locked. Every box braid, up-do, wrap, curl, or natural hair style ever rocked...

From high cheek bones, wide spread to pointed nose; naturally arched to waxed eyebrows, manicured nails, pedicured toes. Full lips, to thin, injected or reduced; from detailed and intelligent, to petty and obtuse. From A cup to Z cup; sagging' or firm either- single lettered or doubled; to a waistline that you can't find, or one that get's you in trouble. Hips and thighs that stop traffic dead in its tracks; to
the dimpled themed thighs with the excess luggage in the back.

From long and luxurious legs, short sporty calves, to small pretty feet; or 'broke down ships' {Which I DO NOT have- and you better not laugh}; from rags to riches, using the prefixes Miss, Ms. or Mrs... Lesbian, bisexual or straight- one that's matured too early, or bloomers that matured too late. From one that has you wondering 'Damn, how'd you get into those? ' To you not wanting to wait to see what's under her baggy clothes.

Hoe to housewife, club hopper, to church girl; independent to needy-
one who'll give her last, and one that's just plain ole' greedy. From one who doesn't say much, to one that says too much; to one that makes your nature rise with one simple touch. From the beginning, to the end; your lover, mother, sister, daughter, or friend; 'baby got back! ' to 'her azz is too flat! ' From a body like a brick house to a body like a quadruplex- whether from a mansion in Cali or the Upper East Projects; from a woman that's simple, to one that's complex. You have to admit, to love us is your God-given reflex.. No matter what type you prefer,
WE ARE WOMEN- the vessels that bring forth life- and for that...
We deserve the utmost respect...