The strength inherited
was hard fought
hard won

A gift given
in chains
of tears

We wear our tears
as precious stones
opals fired
upon fingers

Pearls cool
above the heated pulse

We cloak warriors
in calm
and quiet dignity

A perfect turn
neatly crossed ankles
sweetly modulated speech

All designed
for underestimation
We mistake tears
for weakness

When strength lies
in naked emotion