There’s a difference between hearing and listening
For 19 years, I heard my voice
As sweet as honey
As smooth as a baby's skin
With an alto voice range
It rang in my head through the day and night
By plenty conversations I had with peers and family alike
See, I sounded sophisticated
Like a classy woman who knows her value
I sounded professional with big words I learned
From many novels I fancied
But I didn't listen to my voice
I heard the authority
I know what I said and I heard what I spoke
One day I decided to listen to my voice
I wrote a poem to a 14 year old
Telling baby girl to not be so shy
Telling baby girl to not be afraid to be herself
Telling baby girl that she's a precious diamond who didn't burst
Under the pressure that surrounded her
And I listened
And understood why some say women like me are too loud
They know our voices will cause shifts
And make some changes
I ignored them and wrote more
I performed at open mics
I listened to the raw talent and the voice I ignored
My attention was caught by the voice I was blessed with
Just like loud thunder and lightning
It boomed and caused many to listen to me
My voice needs to be heard and will continue to be heard
For as long as I can
My voice will sustain me
After all, my voice doesn't lie to me
-Mia J
11/9/2018
© 2018 Mia J