"I/We, Women, Rise and Shine"

Dr. Pamelia Riviere
I was battered, abused, and thrown into the Bay of Bengal to drown and die; Again and Again!
I opened my weary eyes,
And tried hard to float my nose to Subsist!
Still, I Rise and Shine; We, Women, Rise and Shine!

I was pushed deep down the sea Thousand times,
To escape, I screamed at my heart and swam like a wounded, wingless butterfly!
I endured Violence against me, but I did not die!
Still, I Rise and Shine; We, Women, Rise and Shine!

I resisted and worked hard for my Right to live!
Something happened to me, a Miracle,
An Invisible hand bestowed Love upon me; I found I was breathing again!
Still, I Rise and Shine; We, Women, Rise and Shine!

A strong wave pushed me onto the Warm sandy beach,
I woke up for my Sunshines, my light of life!
My new life was a grant, a real Godsend!
I recited a Sacred Mantra, I Rise and Shine!
Still, We Rise; We, Women, Rise and Shine!

Dr. Pamelia Riviere is a freelance writer and analyst