PenWomanShip

I could've been happier in life
if I were not raised so frugal,
if I used more toothpaste
to brush my teeth,
and splurged on large ice creams,
instead of small cones.

I could've been happier in life
if I hadn't been told,
ladies do not giggle in public,
walk barefoot in the park,
or swim naked in the river,
yet I have always craved
to do just that
to experience if once only
the feel of a gentle summer rain
on my bare body.

I could've been happy, I believe
if I had worn Katherine Hepburn's hats,
Marilyn Monroe's shoes,
maybe even Sofia Loren's bras.
I wish I were allowed
to run with the wolves,
to pee in the woods,
and sleep with a man
not necessarily my husband.

That path is dangerous
I know.
But I've always done
what pleased my parents,
even now when they are long gone
and I am too old to turn the page
do all of these improper things
that might have made me happy,
with an illusion of freedom
and unity with myself.