So, you are the man, at least that’s what you say.
This should help you decide if you really can play.
See, it’s not what you have that determines the sport
Or how big your ‘toy’ is, or how long or how short.
But what matters the most as I entertain thoughts
Of just what your manhood is or is not,
Is, how well have you treated the man on the street
Who has no home to go to and rags on his feet?
How fat is your wallet? I couldn’t care less
And I’m not the least interested in your conquests!
And don’t ask for my thoughts if you’re just trying to fish.
I say what I mean without adding a twist.
Never having been one to read between lines,
Each word that I say, I weigh several times
Giving thought to each phrase as I’m dishing it out
Leaving no room for questions or serious doubt.
While my words often soothe, resting softly and sweet,
Like hushed benedictions while falling asleep
Some would say that they grate like a shovel on rock,
But only the ones who are dying to talk!
And you know, if I’m wrong, I will quickly concede,
Without hesitation, my virtue to heed.
I don’t always feel witty, with humor to lend.
My will can be stubborn, not willing to bend.
It isn’t my style to tear someone else down
In order that my ways and means may abound,
Nor is it my motive to bring one heart pain.
If it’s something I’ve said, I’ll be glad to explain.
So, tell me the worst but don‘t lie to my face,
I am woman enough to take it with grace,
Whatever it is you may think that I lack.
No one profits from having been stabbed in the back.
I’ve made many mistakes, of which I’m not proud
But no more than the average person’s allowed.
You see, I don’t mind who I’ve grown to become.
I am better than many and look up to some.
I’m balanced and focused with all fears in tow,
Having rolled with the hardest of punches, you know.
So if when you see me you want to take flight,
There’s no need to bother because I won’t fight.
Detaching myself from the source of my grievance
I won’t spend my time giving that person credence.
I’ve pretty much covered what makes up the ME,
When all put together is who you will see.
With no pretense of shadows to hide or conceal.
Which brings us to you and if you’re being real.
Are you like so many, too easily bought
Or a much better man from the wars that you’ve fought?
Well, take me or leave me, I live by my name.
So are you still with me?
Can you do the same?
© By Naomi Hinshaw-Hersh
2/23/2002
All rights reserved.
