BALANCING

by Gay Reiser Cannon
(Port Aransas, TX)

OR ADVICE TO A YOUNG WOMAN JUST SETTING OUT

Cut your heart to the quick depending on some man!
Where, anywhere is it writ for woman to need someone
else to carve out her corner of talent, earth or sky.
Were you not given all you need and more to bind and band
your mind and hand to what you choose; then come
with brave eyes and sure foot to find your answers why.

Your youth was spent with strength, and a well set plan
for culture, travel, knowledge. Your adventuresome
core should not bow to custom or decree. It should defy!
Make well your contracts of love, time. Before you hand
your hours, efforts, brain and sinew to just anyone:
find yourself first, decide what you want, then you can fly.

Know that within yourself, your world is whole;
let the things you know and love define your role.