++To a Non-Muslims Women Poem

To a Non-Muslims Woman
From Rashid Khan


When you look at meAll that you can seeis the scarf that covers my hairMy words you can't hearbecause you're too full of fear,mouth gaping, all you do is stareYou think it's not my choicein your own "liberation" rejoice.

You think I'm uneducated,trapped, oppressed and subjugated,You're so thankful that you're free.

But non-Muslim woman you've got it wrongYou're the weak and I'm the strong.

For I've rejected the trap of man.Fancy clothes - low neck, short skirtthose are devices for pain and hurt.I'm not falling for that little plan.I'm a person with ideas and thought.I'm not for sale, I can't be bought.

I'm me - not a fancy toy,I won't decorate anyone's arm,nor be promoted for my charm.There is more to be than playing coy.Living life as a balancing game - mother,daughter, wife, nurse, cleaner, cook, loverand still bring home a wage.Who thought up this modern "freedom"?

Where man can love'em and man can leave'em.This is not free, but life in a cage.Always jumping to a male agendacompeting on his terms.

No job share, no creche facilities,no feeding and nappy changing amenitiesNo time off for menstrual pain,"hormones" they laugh "what a shame"No equal pay equal skillyour job they can always fill.No promotion unless you're sterilised.

No promotion unless you're sexually terrorised.And this is liberation?Non-Muslim woman you can have your life.Mine - it has less strife.

I cover and I get respected,surely that's to be expected,for I won't demean the feminine,

I won't live to male criterion,I dance to my own tuneand I hope you see this very soon.For your own sake - wake up and use your sight.Are you so sure that you are right?