If you see me strong,

Know that I have fought battles no one knows about,

In darkness, and in pain,

I have wrestled, often in vain

Questioned existence

Eyes blurred with tears

No one will see

Strong women, come out from their lair, all put together,

No reflection of the turmoil within,

Laughing, opinionated, smart

Changing, leading, keeping everything whole,

Asking for nothing more than to be understood, loved and cared for

She will push her demons aside

And hold your hand 

Even if it means her soul is tearing 

Slowly, until you heal

And will smile

As you walk away,

Turn around and start again 

Giving, in spite of the pain.

Sashikala Premawardhane

8th March 2023

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