I’d like to say that sexism doesn’t exist,

That there’s something else to blame,

But the truth of the matter is,

Women are beaten and battered

And I don’t want to bear the shame.

I went to the park when I was 15

In sheer crystal innocence,

In a tee shirt and shorts:

Slutty of course.

If I could’ve predicted what would happen . . .

I screamed and I cried, I promised that,

I would never make that mistake again.

I was proven wrong when next summer came along

And it happened again.

I was 16,

Happy in the sun,

Sweatpants and a sweatshirt,

Hiding the hurt

So I wouldn’t have to run,

I’d almost moved on

When I felt his hungry eyes

Deciding my demise

Hiding behind a disguise.

What a perfect lie.

Dear Dad and Mom, I did nothing wrong,

I wasn’t a provocative whore,

While you’re in denial.

Saying I’m just a child,

I wasn’t wearing a tee shirt and shorts.

I’m alone here today,

I just have to say

I won’t be silenced

Heaven forbid.

When a 25-year-old guy, does what he did

To a 16-year-old girl, trapped in her skin

She urges to escape, the life that she’s lived

Leaving her with one option to choose from.

I promise I’m not lying

Please stop your denying.

I wasn’t wearing a tee shirt and shorts.

So for all the girls out there,

Those feelings we share,

No crying anymore.

Go outside, bring your pride,

And wear your tee shirt and shorts.

I have a bit more to say,

I’ll save it for another day,

Until then, I want you to know.

You decide what you want,

Right or wrong,

It’s your body and it’s your choice.