Illuminated

Free-falling into despair,
I stretch upwards gasping for air.
Reaching towards the source of light,
I welcome the soft glow through a long dark night.

Unfamiliar faces on a computer screen
Bearing tales of hardship
Of which I can only dream.
Sex slaves,
OPP's (Other People's Property),
Girls in bondage,
Women raped,
Sexual harassment,
Bonded fates.

Poor, voiceless, destined to fail
Forming a chorus, a cry, a wail.
Give me a chance,
To learn,
To lead!
I am girl,
I am woman,
Respect my needs!

Igniting a small flame, as the soft light burns
I float to the light, with face upturned.