THE POETRY PLANET INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE MARCH 2023 SPECIAL LIMITED EDITION

Gina Gelua Maristela

I am a Woman...

I am a woman a valuable being...

Created by the Father above in His own images. I was knitted in my mother's womb...

Fearfully and wonderfully and then blessed by God and He told woman to go replenish the Earth ,be fruitful and multiply, fill the Earth & govern it for I am a Woman...I will reign over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, and every animals that scurry along the ground.

I have the strength of a warrior...in every pain in childbirth ....

I have the courage to soar high in the grandest summer skies...

And even in the storms of life...

like the mightiest eagle

For God strengthens me...

All the days of my life!

I am an epitome of the Faithfulness...

Graciousness...

Mercifulness...&

Amazing...LOVE of God!

'Cause in me resides a victorious spirit from birth!

In Sorrow and in pain...

In happiness and joy...

I am content as a woman...

For every inch of me...

God' s marvelous work Is visible....for I am a Woman! Stunning and beautiful creation of God! A unique being....a very rare species from all God's handiwork!!!

Abounding... God blessed me as a woman...greatly favored,honored,His love for me as a Woman is....

So extravagant....

Joyful as I am today...

I am a woman of God!

Peaceful...

Triumphant and victorious....

In my Father's way alone!

I am a Woman....

Today...

So joyful...perfectly created to be a helpmeet to a Man...I am a Woman ...without us the World and everything in it will be as lonely as the grass of the field, it'll be liken to a luminous Moon without it's clouds! A wondrous sunset without it's greeny mountains to hide....A morning breeze without the leaves to contemplate....as it sways in it's every blow! I am a Woman so grateful In God's mighty hand for creating such wondrous creation as i am! For He alone is worthy to be praised for creating a fabulous creation in me as a woman...a very delightful woman created amazingly in this world we live in! For I am a Woman of God! So exquisite and inscrutable! Thank you Lord for creating me....I am a Woman!

“Frailty thy name is woman”, said the famous bard. I do not agree with him. He may be the great Shakespeare but he had no right to define me from his skewed point of view I am a woman and I know what I am. I have a mind of my own. I know what I want to be. I know how and with whom I want to live with I may look frail but I am stronger than many men Loyalty is my character not frailty.

A renowned Indian poet, too, has written: “Alas! Life-story of feeble woman is only raising children and having tearful eyes ” He, too, is wrong A mother, who delivers a baby, cannot be weak. The amount of stress, it takes to bear the pain of delivery, cannot be possible for a man to bear This fact has been scientifically proved In Indian scripture there are innumerable examples of female deities who are epitome of physical and mental strength

In modern day scenario we see women doing everything a man can do besides doing all that men cannot do. There had been many fields that were dominated by men It was a division of work, cleverly exploited by men Sometimes, when men taunt that women are not capable of doing such and such job, they know that they are lying. They never gave the women opportunity to perform They allotted menial jobs to women In short, they just used the women to serve them. They did not allow women to study so that the ladies could be confined to four walls – called home Today, education has emancipated and liberated the women. Despite being deprived of education earlier, they were always a great teacher to their kids Now they are doctors, engineers, professors, lawyers, economists etc They fly air planes, they become astronauts and much more. They were kept in pathetic conditions but now they are on top of the world I am proud to be a woman I am a thinking person Very often, in traumatic situations, I come out stronger than the men around me. I am capable of doing multitasking At the same time my concentration does not waver when I need to focus on an issue I’m delicate because, ‘being delicate is beautiful’. But never question my inner strength. I’m destined to be the conqueror

Won’t Be Prisoner of An Image

A dedication to the mothers Duška Kontić

A Mother is the bearer of new lives, a symbol of birth, holiness and light The cult of the mother should be elevated to the divine being, because the most important and hardest role of the woman who gave us lives is to raise her children responsibly and courageously. The decision to enrich the world for one small creature is worthy of respect and laurels. That is why we must support motherhood as a society and encourage through various forms of help to increase the birth rate, because it is a great responsibility and duty of all countries, especially those in which the number of newborn children is declining. A mother carries her child in her stomach for nine months with accompanying difficulties, and the very act of giving birth is very painful, old people said that it is the greatest torment that is easiest to forget because when she sees her child, it is the happiest moment in life for a mother Only a mother nurtures her children so unselfishly and unreservedly and gives them so much love. Fight for their survival and guide them to be good and socially beneficial human beings. That thorny road of a mother, caring for a family and the huge burden she carries on her back must be understood, rewarded and respected As long as their mother is alive she is there for them through good and bad.

Let's bless all the mothers in the world because it's the least we can do for them Children often forget the great sacrifice of a mother and her selfless love. They start on a strange journey, but the mother never gives up And in such events she is by her child, trying to open his eyes and save him from vices and mud. That's why we all have to pray to God for forgiveness if we even hurt our mother with a word, because she deserves it the least. From the perspective of a mother, I best feel all these anguish, struggles, anxiety, burning in the desire to show my children by personal example and constant guidance what are the real moral values, that the most important thing in their lives is to be honorable and honest people. A man is rich only if he has a heart full of love and understanding. Everything else is an illusion. Listen to the words of a mother who tried to guide her three children to the real, true commandments from God Mother is a sacred being . She is often misunderstood and humiliated in ignorance by her loved ones or society in general. I will have to set the example of mother Montenegro. When the mother gave birth to a baby girl no one rejoiced but they looked at her with other eyes, a bit with regret, because she did not give birth to a male child. When I gave birth to my third girl a friend came to me and started crying because God forbid I didn't give birth to a boy I told her maybe I’ll be happier with my female children than she is with her sons. That's exactly how it was. The greatest happiness for a mother is when she gives birth to a healthy child

Anne Maureen Medrano Esperidion She is a Star

"a woman is not only for supporting ,extra nor a person at the back of the theater nor behind the screen for she holds numerous title roles in this big screen we are dwelling into ”annemaureen A woman is a lead actor that portray various vital roles in home and society yet often seen behind the screen. She is not a mere extra that give all the scenes to the lead actor, or a sidekick that only given a minimal exposure or a mere supporting actor that plays only a part of the clip for she can be the star of the show with her ability and capabilities to play the characters assigned to her likewise with her strong will ,determination, perseverance and versatility she is able to parallel with what man can do A woman is someone who is capable of multi tasking ,nurturing new life, moulding purposeful relationship, creating a one-off domain while moulding herself into a significant one. A woman isn’t only for taking care of the household works, baby sitting and looking after her significant partner, she is also competent in professional or work fields in which she has proven herself as co equal to the man A woman despite of being fragile and vulnerable, she manages to pick herself and move forward with head up A woman shouldn’t only confined in the four walls of the house for she is also efficient to perform tasks that a man does, she is talented and skilled in staging diverse dramatist personae and versed to enact myriad of starring parts that is essential and constructive to the growth of the society. Woman should not look after her gender nor questioned her competencies based on her femininity and belittled her prowess and aptitude hinged on her womanliness rather treats her proportionately, regards her evenly, views her alike and embrace her synonymous to man for woman especially woman of todays even can offer a greater caliber and ace performances. Gender category isn’t the basis of who is better, who is higher and who should be on top for man and woman are symmetrically congruent entitled to be lead actors for the betterment of world

Iamproudtobea womanwhois equippedwith talents,skills, aptitudes,andright attitudethat probablyhelpfulin performingmyrole astheleadactorand notamember behindthesceneor anaudience.

Katica Zmijarević Women you are heroines

Women friends you are heroines full of secrets through life, the largest unused reservoir of talent No more humiliation, time has come ahead of prejudice and everything in the gates on which you are a pillar. The pillar of the house with three corners are yours, on your back you carry, let the known and unknown defy you, it's all in vain You went through all the storms solved all the secrets and took the shackles off the neck. You, woman, are the moral force and ethics, your instinct never cheats, it's feelings, it's love

Time has never stopped for your children, permanent packaging without, preservatives. You pushed him through all the cracks of life, thinking of a new tomorrow, even though they call you the weaker sex. They built your injustice with slander along the long way you walked through,

You were not worth mentioning when you gave birth, you were not well-accepted, in the passing years, the head was losing because of you, wars were fought, isn't that sad

Remember woman live with intuition with thousands of graces, continue to be an example to everyone who don’t want or don’t know how to give you the attention you deserve

Love at first sight, love that has grown for years, like a flower on a meadow full of mirror epithetes In the power of nature, among other things, your hands are free, breathe just breathe, a woman without prejudice, a woman with a reason for existence and belief

You pour trumpets from the sleeves of the river, you draw attention with love when it is needed, these are the qualities of the personality of a woman who will no longer and does not want to beg, kneel and be humiliated.With gathered hands in the holy prayer at the doorstep of the old house he lives A woman with an empowered spirit, a quick step she travels into the world of knowledge, opens a new chapter without any fear

Opens the golden door to freedom and access of the mother of a hardworking woman, the hand of the blisterous without shame because it is her dota, with that she stepped on the knee-deep water in the new morning And now she steps and bathes in the riverbed, difficult moments of happy forgetfulness, a strong eternal persistent woman,

Fate of a woman Atukunzire Yvonne

Look at her smile, It's not real, it's actually fake, Just a lie on her face, And if you observe carefully, You will notice beads of tears rolling down, Puzzled?, you are right, She is very drunk, Not from the drinks she's had, But from the sleepless nights, The endless battles, The untangled mess, The unsolved puzzles, The questionnaires, as if she was a political candidate, The doubt, the haste, the suspicious, The trials, the agent on the other hand holding records of her wrong deeds, Then, there comes the sentence, and it become her demise,

They said they found her guilty, That she hasn't used her time so well, That she didn't love enough, That she smiles with everyone and thus have become pretentious, That she has been so mean, That she is selfish, That she is heartless, That she is careless, That she's jealous without reason, Guilty or not guilty

She pleaded guilty

The situation was hopeless

And acting all saint was useless, She accepts the sentence, She has become bitter more than the devil himself

So what's left to lose if she already lost the humanity in her?

Any thing more or less is not worthy of a name

No need to cry over spoilt milk,

THE RESILIENCY OF A WOMAN

JoelAparecioBernasor

At first, I feel awkward, to write a prose about a women, because first and foremost I am not a woman but since my mother is a woman, I have two sisters which are women I feel oblige to pen this little prose for the International Women’s Day Celebration, which, we also celebrate as, I belong to a Non Government Organization which provide capability building to women, mothers and housewives.

The theme, I am woman based on my understanding and perception is not only, a declaration of physically, that she is a woman, a female but an assertion of her rights as a woman in many aspects of life particularly in home, as a young girl to a lady, to a mother, which moulded her physically, mentally, culturally and socially of her role to be played in home, community and society, in work and society.

The resiliency and sustainability of a woman is amazing and marvelous, even in the time of uncertainty and challenges, she naturally develop a sense of creativity and resourcefulness, in order to survive especially if her children relied to her in terms of daily living or she is a bread winner of the family. Her capacity to make self sacrifice just to make her children and family live and sustained in the midst of crisis is a thing to be given an attention She is a woman, degraded by the patriacrhal society as weak and feeble but in reality, she is not and will never, she is like a bamboo tree that when a storm comes, no matter how strong the wind, it will just sway and when peace will come, the bamboo will will simply return to her old position while others fell down and died Being a woman is being resilient, unbreakable spirit in the midst of all challenges in life and for many years working with women, I observed something of the women, their capacity for housekeeping, not a physical housekeeping, but in terms of financial housekeeping is excellent, they wanted to be sure that everything will be appropriated based in what is planned and budgeted

Finally, I AM A WOMAN is an assertion of her rights and equality in home, work, community and society. It is a dream that someday will be realized particularly in a society where women where vehemently oppressed and deprived of their basic rights due to many reasons and conditions. I AM A WOMAN is a declaration that she, too, is a human being, not a property of man, she has emotions and rights to grow, developed, improve and she had rights to educations, equal remuneration and promotion and other aspects which only granted to men.

WOMAN OF PRINCIPLES Rubelyn Joy Ramores

A girl can be a woman but a woman cannot be a girl; And, she strive to be the latter. Experiences has mold us into a person we didn't expect we would be. Seldom, we desire to be the woman of our dreams but turned out to be the woman that this world need. I believe that it is one of the most beautiful transformation for us: Women Our expectation for our own growth is limited, to our shock, we evolve into something more and great. We became a person who stand on the ground so firm with principles we hold on not to break Mediocre people often set their eyes on us and throw us discrimination because they see the strength, courage, and boldness. Opposite to what they expect in us

People may hate or rather condemn us but it will never be our bother. Spit of madness, anger, and insecurities may shake us though it will not be use against us and break us apart Shame to those who's excited for our downfall, for we just showered them love and compassion.

A woman, founded by love and who's already redeemed by an Almighty God will confidently walk with grace and show the world the true identity of her. A woman who's not too eager with compliments because it will always be a weak foundation for her. A woman is also the same woman who's walking in the path of what is right, with a mind of a wise, a pure heart and a soul that knew that its purpose is to be use in this world, to be an example and push people turned into a divine creation. A woman who pursue to be use by God and never abuse by the world; A WOMAN

Woman.. a blessing from God

Being born as a woman is a pride .. She is a blessing from God... A marvellous creature of nature...She is a grandmother, mother, wife, daughter, daughter-in-law, grandchild, friend, lover. She is like water taking the shape of the mould in which she is put..

She is the woman who is hidden behind the walls, crushed under the stones of customs and traditions... But she is also like the grass...which bends when stepped on and rises back... She is ever composed and well versed in hiding the hurt and insults she bears For decades together she has been a victim of atrocities... Female infanticide prevailed some years ago.. They were aborted before they would enter the world Every family wanted a male heir But now the world has changed... Woman has a great part to play in the society..

A woman has a heart of gold. She brings in love, care and affection She puts fragrance to the soul.. She is full of enthusiasm when situation demands.. She is a living exampl greatness for human relations and val Womanhood has a positive approach tow life . From the day she carries a child in womb.. she starts living for the yet to be b baby. As a mom she is as bright a constellation of stars She imbibes moral va and educates her child to face the world bol While she lends her shoulders to responsibilities, she has the patience overcome the difficulties and courage to them.. She sacrifices her interests and pass for the sake of the family... Her tears are mas by the smile she wears on her sleeve.. As a daughter she brightens the family brings in endless love..

A woman takes up the reins of the family and leads it towards success... She is as grac as a queen as well as humble as a housemaid

If given power she can lead a country forward too... Now that women have entered all fields..there is no looking back... They are doing well as head of organisations, as scientists, as head of countries, ministers, ambassadors, teachers, sportspersons, actresses, models, and so on so forth...

She juggles between relationships extending a part of herself She gives out unconditional love.. She is a kind heart with compassion, faith and trust..

A woman is a bureau of knowledge

Let us applaud the sacrifices she made and the patience she has..

Womanhood should be celebrated and respected

Where would the world be if there were no women.. I am proud I am an woman... who can be a friend of myself in times of need..

SHADOWSOFTHEPAST

Olusola Abraham Asaolu

Ada’s life had been a conquered story of betrayals and heartbreaks, repeatedly suffered in the hands of men. Each experience had cut a deep gash in her heart,leaving her emotionally bruised and distrustful of menfolks One of such experiences happened when she was barely twenty years old. On a fateful cold Harmattan morning ,she had run into a tall, handsome man at the bus terminal who strove hard and fenced off other passengers in a bid to get her a seat beside him in a half- filled bus . It was the usual Lagos rush and it often takes sheer stamina and uncommon agility to board buses in the early rush hours . Settled on her seat, she cast the man a furtive look and shyly muttered her gratitude. "Thanks so much. That was very kind of you", she said, managing to fix her gaze on the friendly stranger

"Never bother, I always feel like helping vulnerable people whenever I have the opportunity to do so", he replied and smiled broadly. "By the way, I‘ m Ade. I work at the Mainland Bank at the city center". he further proffered

"I guess you’re heading for the Industrial Avenue," "Yes, you’re right. Funny enough, I had been standing at the bus terminal for the past fifteen minutes unable to join in the fray"

Before they alighted at their different points on the route, they exchanged their phone numbers, and within the next few days he invited her to a lunch at a high brow eatery In between mouthfuls of snacks, Ade told her of his love for her and not being in any stable relationship, Ada agreed to his overtures. However, unknown to her, Ade was a serial womanizer, one who likes taking advantage of undiscerning ladies Barely a month earlier, he had broken off with Rose, a long time friend over a false accusation of infidelity. Hers was a typical case of Ade’s long list of use and dump escapades Incidentally, as soon as Ade and Ada sauntered into the main street from the vicinity of the sprawling eatery, they ran into Rose. Taken aback by the unexpected encounter, Ade steeled his heart against a possible unpleasant scenario He maintained a straight face, trying to shield Ada from the unfolding drama..

But Rose, like a wounded tigress was poised for a fight. She hissed derisively and screamed some obscenities at the duo "So this is your new found fake love. You must be living in a fool’s paradise to think you can use me and dump me like a cheap whore" As she charged furiously at him, Ada was flushed with shame and swore she had made a big mistake..

A WOMAN OF SUBSTANCE Suparna

Sandra and Danny were childhood sweethearts. Sandra was the ‘lead singer’ of the school choir while Danny was a drummer They would steal glances in the school corridors The cupid struck them early in life. After being admonished by the Principal their meeting in the school premises was curbed. The desire of the two hearts to meet brought them together to the church every Sunday morning

Soon, Sandra joined a prestigious hospital as a nurse but Danny dropped out from school after failing in class twelfth exams His passion for music had made him quite popular in hotels and night clubs and by then Sandra had saved enough and bought a flat for herself. Sandra, looked beautiful and many eligible bachelors were waiting to propose to her On the Valentine’s Day 2019, Danny proposed Sandra for marriage but Sandra declined the offer as he did not have a proper job in hand. One day they had a nasty fight, casting aspersions on each other and they broke up

Danny continued to stalk Sandra for a couple of months, with the worm of suspicion recoiling in his mind On a cold winter night of 2020, Sandra got late in returning home after a double shift of duty in the Covid ward. Her scooter had broken down on that cold wintery night. Suddenly she could see three tall shadows hovering over her when ,that’s when she saw a motorcycle revving that gave her a sigh of relief. To her surprise it was Danny standing before her. Danny shielded her and gave a bloody nose to the rogues who fled away

All drenched and shivering, Sandra broke down as Danny wrapped his arms around her. Danny offered her coffee and led her to his studio apartment. After drying herself, Sandra sipped the strong coffee and immediately passed out on the couch and slumped The coffee was laced with a drug ‘Mephedrone’, which had knocked her off her senses. She woke up the next morning all dishevelled It was Danny who had planted those goons and staged the roadside crime. The devil in him was aroused when she was alone with him and he outraged her modesty and even shot a video for blackmailing her

Soon she realized to her horror that she was pregnant with Danny’s child. Danny wanted termination of the fetus but Sandra decided to bring up the child as a single parent. Though she was compelled to marry him due to societal pressures they did not live as husband and wife Sandra was a woman of substance who did not yield to Danny’s whims .She waited for him to return from jail as a changed man

Danny was put behind the bars and returned a changed man after five years.

India, where women power has ever been worshipped ! Gopal Sinha

I was born in a country, India, we call her Bharat Mata or Mother India, where Shakti or women power is well-acknowledged, worshipped and respected. Our national song is Vande Mataram, I bow to thee, my mother (India)! We love and respect our mother, motherland, mother tongue, Mother Earth, Mother Nature, mother river Ganga, mother cow and Aadya Shakti, as the mother of all gods, who manifests herself in different forms.

I bow to all the women of the world, and, as has been taught to me, since my childhood, by my parents, teachers and elders, they are like my mother, sister or even daughter.

In one of our holy books in Sanskrit, called the Manusmriti, it has been mentioned that where women are not greatly respected, the gods and deities don't like to visit and stay there. Women, in our society, were held in reverence and were accorded first place and preference, in all respects.

We address our gods and goddesses as SitaRam, Radhe-Shyam, Gauri-Shankar, Anjani-putra Hanuman, where Sita is the revered wife of Ram, whose name comes first, then of Ram. Similarly Radha is the revered consort of Krishna, also called Shyam, Gauri is the revered wife of Shiva, also called Shankar and Anjani is the mother of Lord Hanuman.

We know about Gargi and Maitrey, for their spiritual curiosity, and knowledge, who participated in debate and discussions, held at the royal court of king Janak of Mithila. Many of the richas or verses of Rig Veda were composed by women of the time We know about Lilavati, daughter of the great mathematician Bhaskaracharya, Meerabai, the famous poetess and a Krishnadevotee, besides Rani Lakshmi Bai of Jhansi The world knows about Indira Gandhi, the late Prime Minister of India and Draupadi Murmu, a tribal woman, now the President of the world's largest republic, India

Being a woman in India is like being a beloved daughter, sister, wife and mother. A girl child born or a daughter-in-law is equated to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity.

Daughters are being treated at par with sons in all respects and they are excelling in almost every sphere

Single or married, working or a housewife, they all would proudly proclaim themselves as proud Indian women, on a path of self-dependence to do selfless services to their nation.

I ALSO NEED SOME LOVE Edwin Rukungu

I am woman, born of man and woman. First sight of light the midwife slapped my bossom. I cried. The beginning of cycles of my pain.

I am the woman who the other women whispered 'another one is born.' Their faces sad, but all in all the maternity hut was filled with ululations, four to be exact, and the world went quiet Everyone knew a girl was born

I am a woman brought up holding onto my mamas breasts, suckling till they went dry. Never knowing I too would have my wells sucked dry. I am woman who mastered the ways of my ancestors and cheerfully passes it down to my offsprings.

I am woman taught to balance the pot on my head Bear the weight of the traditional necklaces round my neck. Artfull cover my chest and groin leaving my belly open. And gracefully walk in the company of both the elderly and young women, swinging my hips in a seductive way making sure each step to the stream mattered.

I am woman whose voice varies in seasons. When in love I lower my voice, angelically calming the nerves of my lover to be. Sends shivers to his body making him attached to my soul. When angry, I become an untamed lioness, roars like the lion, fights like boar and leaves marks that noone can bear.

I am a woman who the world boos at when I sought to be independent. Whose legacy means nothing, I am only remembered by my acts of love, sacrifice and peace. I am a woman who is casualty of war. Men start war, men die at war, some return to me to reassemble them then go back to fight and I am left to mourn over their lifeless bodies.

I am woman who daily worries of my children. Some love me, others are rebels but I love them all the same

I am a woman who owns no land. Yet they plant their seed in me and gladly I produce.

When I am old, he brings in another version of my young self and mocks me

Showing all his affection to his new lover and yet my love for him never faulters. I love them all the same. I am the same woman who prepares all their dishes and never has a thought of being malicious crossed my mind

I am woman made of love, even when hatred stirs within the fold. Mending the stitches one by one till they are no more Holding together the pieces of an entire generation I am the woman who they return to drunk, beat up and broken. Yet I raise them up again till they are on their feet again

I am the woman who they never talk about because I too gave in to pleasures of this world and had a King make warm my bed. I now have a prince in my belly, a farmer on my back and a soldier beside me

Jyothi Bhagawat

Thoughts of a successful woman

I don't understand why we women have to shout from the rooftops I am a woman, give way' Does a man say any such thing ' I am a man,take notice 'We women have come to this stage because of lack of courage and positive thinking.

From time immemorial, woman took on her role of the house making, childbearing and childbrearing, keeping husband happy. He went out,brought food,provided security and fought enemies This went on millenia after millenia Now in 20th and 21st century AD.,woman has woken up from deep slumber, taken interest in her surrounding. She has realized that she is doing 10 times the work of man,still considered weak Now she wants equal share in property, salary, and promotion. She is ambitious, gained entry into armed forces,space science, digital and artificial intelligence work,all forms of art, music, cinema. You name it,she is there. A step ahead of man.

In my case,the partiality between my brother and myself was evident from young age Though l was more intelligent than brother, mama was saying why God has given me brains than son ,he is the one looking after them This made me feel guilty Later on he did not do well,I took care of my mother.I became a doctor.did well in my profession, came up in life and society. I married a doctor,two lovely daughters, who are doctors themselves Now everyone says how very lucky I am to have such beautiful caring daughters. I smile inwardly. Same people had commented on birth of my second daughter,Oh sorry, second one is also a girl I don't have to prove anything to anybody. I am a self made woman.Now that I have started writing poems,and joined the group of poets, my life has become brighter still Now I can definitely shout from the rooftop I AM A WOMAN.

Maria Elvira Fernandes Correia We, Women

I am a woman empowerment of strength and sensuality. You may say: " You are selfish by saying this." - I woild say - NEVER. How can a woman bear the weight of hers into a remarkable Persona?

- It's of hers basic elegant clothing, ready to any moment.- If she wears a necklace and a bracelet plus stiletto shoes, for sure, she fits in dreams of many perfectly well - She can't help to be noticed Mellifluous voice shall a woman utter while speaking to anyone, and if she whispers, her voice casts echoes of spell to not disapoint any Man. - Her loveliness, it denies not her beauty She is powerful when a baby is conceived Woman carries a being in her womb for nine months, and the miracle of life blossoms. - This is impossible to any Man! - God was wise about creation choosing woman to procreate human beings - We know she can't play it alone, and she needs a Man to reproduction, but for her designated the best of divine cycle.

A woman, mother, daughter, child all phases she goes through - How fortunate those are who have a mother, and learn to respect her from the beginning, and in the ancient years of her life deny not support, and live received aling their own lives - We born and die, ones stay longer and healthy, others along the years decay fast, suffering the heavy burden of tough days, most if times disoriented, the basuc needs they can't fulfill - At this very moment, it's time to show our gratitude and hope someone else plays the role when our time comes.

A woman can be what she wants to. A domestic life if she choose, a professional life if she choose, and on this late field she shall not ve relegated to second plan. Labor force involves all, together we are stronger.

Feminine, not feminist shall a woman be Fighting fir independency without missing her essence because real purpose shall converge within the parameters of any being. A woman shall not look like a Man to impose her ideas, principles, moral, ethics, wishes A woman is a woman, she will never be a man; but she thinks, she has her goals, and dhe shall be respected, mainly.

A woman, a fragrant lavender flower who appeases any heart in time of trouble, and when the boat of life adrift, she fight to go back to the quayside She is able to father all pieces and transform into a new voyage; soft and calm within its level harmonize the energy of entire beings, the scent of lavender bloom makes you feel good; dies so a woman who is an untired warrior to those around her. I am so proud to be a woman, no one of the best ones, though I am a woman at my sixties, I have already had many stumbles and falls. I think I have learned from them where not to go again It doesn't mean I will never fall once more Life is a journey of learning and selecting from what is good and bad till our voyage reach out the end

Woman creation of God, a Rainbow after any rain.

Acceptance of self Anjana Prasad

I am a woman not an object, our great great grandmothers had said this, pleadingly, repeatedly. The voice remained feeble, but never ceased Now we are in the 21st century, still fighting for women's rights around the globe.

It is the next door story of your own mother, sister, wife or girlfriend facing financial struggle and lack of education

Getting married, and having children is not a criteria for the success of a woman anymore. With passing time the molten lava within, has seeped and is ready to flow breaking the mountain of barriers "You have enough, people around make you believe less is more."

But not anymore Thanks to her education, thanks to her parents who took pride in her, that gives a woman immense strength to wipe away her tears, mask her sorrows, gather up her confidence in a neat bun and she is able to stand against the world, which has found pride in judging her throughout the ages

With love still strong and overflowing from her bosom, she walks the red carpet she has laid for herself on the asphalt

With her children by her side, who understand her plight, she is ready to cross the bridge of trolls with an optimistic mindset. Divorced or single, she is backing up her daughters

Shake hands with her as a friend, support her emotionally. She has a clear picture of what she wants from life unlike her foremothers. No more a timid damsel, trying to hide her face 'neath the veil She has understood her soul and mind Belief and faith in herself is enough to take the world in her stride. Giving too much of yourself to others was not her weakness, but out of love and concern for family After swallowing bitter pills for ages, she realised, save some love for yourself, you deserve it too. So, hey people out there, don't get intimidated by her change and success

Admire the soul who brought you into this world. Walk beside her, hold her hands, give her respect and above all don't stab her in the back Once, the person who doubted herself, has realised her self worth. The magic of being a woman unfolds. Settling down, getting married, and having children is no more the benchmarks to define her happiness.

"With you, together we can change the world, without you, I can survive my love."

Autobiography of A Lady

PrashantaKumarSamanta

I am a Woman. I am the only daughter of my parents They have much expectation for me

Though they are teachers of schools they want me to be an officer.

According to their will I read very carefully and attentively I stand first in the examinations At last I become an officer

Now my parents are retired persons.I have to look after them now and then. Both of them are suffering from various diseases Once in a week I take them to doctor's chambers

I am married. I have one son. He is very much naughty .In my absence he doesn't abide by none. I have my father in law and mother in law They are also very old My husband lives in America He comes six months intervals. Though there are servants in the houses but they are not careful

Again as I am an officer I must be punctual. The other workers are not active.I have to guide them properly Though I am a woman but I have to do my duties like a man. Like a son I keep my parents happy.

There is only one obstacle I can't walk or go outside at night I have to wait for the day It doesn't matter much as I talk with the person Who is in distress over telephone. Being a woman I never feel disappointed I have to do many duties I think I can perform them.

I am not beautiful to look at. Some of my colleagues say ill words behind me I don't pay attention to their speeches I know a man or woman should be judged not by the colour of skin but by the quality he or she has possessed In a civilized society a man and a woman should have equal rights

Loreta C Bande

STARS IN MY PALM

They cast stereotypes around me: a few compliments, some flattery and many biting remarks I am more than those Stabs all go to the heart from comments like " you're good in mathematics yet to naive to...", you're new hair style looks sexy" or " what speed can you expect from a female driver " Scathing, yet, I can't be daunted by people who have still to learn civility in language use.

Thin and graceful, I was mistaken to be weak; yet, I labored for my children's birth without moaning and crying, endured sleepless nights to take care of my child sick with measles, and after school work and household chores I taught them to read and write and study well for college scholarship, which they all got.

I didn't sit in a corner feeling sorry for myself when my spouse failed in our agreed upon role reversal nor did I let people at the workplace mistreat me I claimed what's due me and I didn't respond to the unreasonable dictates of others for they could bring me down as well as my children. I showed my children how to be survivors and not victims in life. We are to survive together and thrive in coexistence with compassion, passion and style that's humane. Together, we can paint beauty to perfection, make others laugh while fighting for our rights and those of others as Malala Yousafzai or fight for the conservation of mother earth as Greta Thurnberg.

To women leaders, let's take note of the words of Hilary Clinton, "In to many instances, the march to globalization has also meant the marginalization of women and girls. And that must change." So must the homes that sell the girls to older men or marry them for bigger dowry.

To me the true essence of a woman lies in her empowerment, in her utilization of all stars in her palms or smarts that are God-given for her uplift and for others.

A lot is still to be done for other girls and women along laws, cultural concerns and gender equality. If I fight for my right, I won't be apologetic for I am an image of a genderless God.

A Woman In Marriage Okoi Amadiowei Jacob

Every wise woman who is aware of the dignity of unity in marriage is inclined to playing some salient roles in supporting her husband to be successful in management of their home Yes, she is aware of his prime position as the head of a married home which is noted from generations ago thus she is not in a married home to overthrow man as the head of the family She is also aware that some of those ancient doctrines which gave excesses to man cannot be effective in recent civilization yet she is aware that her relationship with man is delicate, sensitive and sacred thus required mutual understanding for possible adjustment of those crude criteria that relegated the rights and privileges of women to dustbin

That glowing beauty, man is searching for, from other women is imbedded in his wife from birth. The percent of pleasure, man is yearning for, from other women is available in his wife from creation The respect, man is emphasizing to receive from other women is also available at the inner mind of his wife. It is left for him to activate it with instances of love and fidelity in marriage Whenever the mind of a man is totally absent from other women, he will surely see and appreciate those positive potentials that are available in his wife but whenever the mind of a man is somewhere else, no amount of potentials in a woman will be good enough to attract his attention towards a God's given worthy wife in marriage It is therefore left for both husband and wife to work together to make a woman to be a worthy wife in marriage. Woman is like a fertile flourishing plant tree in a compound that bears flowers and fruits in each season for inhabitants to enjoy her fruitfulness yet everyone forgot to nourish her so that she will bear more fruits in future

for the benefit of those who are part of her life. If you really nourish a woman, she will flourish fruitfully for you and even others to enjoy the worthiness in her Yes, every woman is a flowering fruit that decorates her husband's home with flowers and fruitfulness in marriage Woman, I am a woman who is in marriage, to be a big blessing to my husband, and to humanity in my moment of existence on earth.

Struggle To Achieve

Once a very charming, intelligent, highly qualified soft spoken woman I held a high post in office. Respected by all, a problem solver. Sometimes people wanted to take advantage of my kindness, but I always showed them their place,making them dumb struck. In office rivalry I showed back stabbers their place by removing misunderstanding in a jiffy Being young there were marriage proposals for me being choosy, I ignored. Ravi's proposal I liked, his was a happy joint family, three brothers, two married sisters, Ravi youngest a engineer running a small factory of solar heaters and products using solar energy. Ravi was caring, concerned person we were on the same wavelength.

His family was a happy joint family, it was like working in an office, all sharing duties. Ravi being the youngest, our marriage was a lavish affair. Engagement then marriage attended by his brothers, sisters and their families,relatives Lots of merry making, dancing, all enjoying lavish food and innovative ceremonies, a real family get together. Marriage over, I settled down with Ravi, and his nice joint family, our families bonded well together. I continued my job and handed over my salary to Ravi's parent's they said,"put it in bank we'll use it in an emergency. " Did outside work, shopping for the family while coming home from office. Soon daughter, and son born, I gave up my job. Looked after all family's children studies. I became a teacher guide, cook, nanny for all children Time flew on wings, both brothers children grew up, joined medical , engineering colleges. My daughter is in 9th Std son in 7th Std.

Suddenly life became meaningless, Ravi met with a accident we tried our best to save him but he didn't survive . I was terrified without Ravi's support , how I'll survive this crisis. All in family helped me o tide over this pain of Ravi's death Took myself in hand, started going to the factory greeted by well trained staff, with hard work and sincerity put in use what I learned from Ravi while helping him

Factory was soon making profits with new and old clients. I opened a small canning unit to make jam, jelly, syrups, pickles by buying fruit and vegetables directly from farmers,with a trained staff, and needy women's, help In chopping, cutting and helping in all stages of making products Soon my products made a place in market and sold well. It was a difficult time for me, now both units are doing well, running on oiled wheels I supervise Daily thank God for helping me in my difficult time. Thank Ravi for helping me from his heavenly abode. Pray for children to achieve their goals

BEING A WOMAN Azucena Libiran Gonzales

Perhaps there's no suitable answer for this prosaic or monotonous question, "Who Am I". Sometimes we have to ask ourselves this question to learn and know our true identity However, I know who I am-I am a woman. Life's experiences gave me the ability to stand up for myself and be better of who I am I've made some mistakes in my life but I don't let my mistakes define me. Pain can be felt by anyone, but when I feel pain, I cover it with love, grace and confidence Being a woman means playing multiple roles in the household; that of a mother, nurturer, mentor or counselor, all at once with a love that is indefinable Womanhood is a gift to be treasured and valued with appreciation and gratitude, but it's a privilege that comes with certain inescapable responsibilities, rooted in the purpose for which God created us.

I am a woman who accept the basic fact that God created woman vastly different from man, not only physiologically but also emotionally, mentally and even spiritually. However, with regard to good values, good morals, positivity and respect, we are all equal A woman is entitled to live in dignity and in freedom from want and from fear. Like other strong women, I am a woman who continually try to overcome fears, know how to control myself and be patient no matter the situation. In life, we come across many challenges Some of them make us who we are How a woman holds herself against adversity makes her formidable. Her enduring faith makes her powerful and confident as well Thank God for such a sublime, heavenly gift; I am a woman.

Teresita Barrera

I embrace God's gift being endowed to me. It is the most beautiful gift to deliver life. Because I am a woman born with a purpose in life, I grip within me deep and a compassionate heart. But first, being a woman many if not all, have considered me weak. Judgment has been thrown without really trying to discern the best qualities I'm equipped with. A woman many perceive with no bones to become worthfulfilling.

In my early days, I always succumb to all that I'm asked to do. There was never gender equality among my peer group. Even if I've excelled in many things, it was not enough to compensate for their belief that I don't need to be given special tasks to perform. Gender inequality was a gender-based discrimination I have concluded that many took advantage of the vulnerability of women

Women who work as hospitality girls are considered mere toys being played with, with worldly lust. They're being handled not with caress but with harassment They're being despised and scorned. Their right to live a happy normal life is being deprived of them. I have seen how helpless a woman becomes when not socially accepted in a community With all of these, being a woman living with a purpose, I refute to disagree. Being a woman I stand to fight for our equal rights with anybody else

We are women with high self-esteem and be accorded due respect. As women in our community, we work cooperatively to ensure the stability, progress and development of our place.

As a woman I feel empowered to lead a healthy life and risk-free for all those helpless women. I know the Lord's faithfulness with His mercy and grace, we will be able to achieve a happy and healthy nation with all the women equipped with great integrity, loving hearts, and powerful voice to shout out their advocacy

IBecame Fierce

Standing Shoulder To Shoulder Ronel David

The qualities of a woman, and the power she possesses hidden, even man cannot compare, to the strength she harbours within. Every male child, born unto this earth, should never ever forget, it is a woman who gave him birth Should respect every woman, because without them life can't go further And the core existence of mankind, would just vanish without any murder

A woman, created by God, they say in holy books, is a part of man, but refined in shape and looks As seen through the eyes of a man, a woman is mere substance, very few can gauge their worth, or the purpose of their existence

A woman as I see, is not from this earth, gifted to man to complete him, using a part from around his girth. She's made by God himself, with improvements and finess

With added qualities, which in man He had found to be less. She is the one who makes few walls of stone, or a mansion, or a thatched hut, for you, to lovingly call home.

She holds the family up, taking care of each there are, under-riding her importance, although with man, she equally stands at par. Love and kindness her strength, with tenderness she cares, for every one she loves, for them pains she'd willingly bear Handling many jobs, at home, at work, with ease. Well, that's how it does appear, cause she seldom complains of fatigue But we can't forget she's human, her pains the same as man Which makes us wonder at times, all that she does, how she can? rom managing two fronts, that of work and of home to take care, to bearing the weight of a child for nine months, and further the labour pains she'd bear.. Being a daughter, a sister, a lover,.. a teacher, a nurse, a spouse.. And further to become a mother, bringing new life into your house, She manages every role very efficiently, never giving you a chance to complain, all this and more as she plays the role of a maid too, and still.. Keeps her mind from going insane.

She has been there through the times, standing shoulder to shoulder, with every peasant and king, as times have grown older

She's had many mentions in the books of history, fighting wars for freedom, fighting for the rights of the Indian 'Stree'

But man has always been, ruling over her kind, as frail and weak in anatomy, a woman he always did find. But if a woman denies to play the roles she does, then where would man be standing if the reins would leave his cluch. And today as times have changed, I find it pretty strange, to hear of female foeticides, and a girl child not considered the family's pride But if every woman, stands up to proclaim, 'I AM WOMAN!, i'm a boon, not a bane' then this world will not be the same again

Zenaida Laragan Taloza

IT WAS NEVER EXISTED

As you touch my life, stars begins to shine

Leaving indellible mark to the depth of my heart

An innate ability weaved this sweet delight

And brilliance stirring behind above skyline

In the midst of silence, a strange sensation

This passion feelings lightly sprouts emotion

Your echoes glorifies with leam at sight rectify

Fantasy ramps, a flame of noble sacrifice.

A powerful magnanimity binded with trust

Seemed mesmerized my thoughts for a while

Finally enjoined into my breath unrestrained

Craving a gentle sigh, emerging a soft rebound

Hearts now craving to create a golden dream

As our souls shielding to impulsive creating

Craving simply your divine sweet soul at sight

Touching my hearts like the leams of daylight

Meeting together at the density of the clouds

Like a fragile rose that fades but it lurks glows

Unleased our sentiments as if divine love flows

Though my heart is fortified by a rhythmic melody I've known

Though I've been so true, it's seems so cruel, That life for us not that's full but made of fantasy

We travel around but we never been together in heart

This fantasy of love never existed in time.

Renette Dsouza

Running Away From Me

I've been to many places and life is a sweet song Filled with music, I've been singing to all along.

I've moved thru towns and cities, from mountains to the seas Travelling like a gypsy gal, a wanderer in the breeze

Enamoured by this lifestyle and on the move for so long, But the music starts jarring, now I know not where I belong.

A backpacker without boundaries, going where I want to be To undertake any journey, unbound, set free.

Been sailing on the ocean, never landed on the shore Paid the price of freedom, but I know not, who I am anymore.

I'll never know the sounds of little voices, the pitterpatter of tiny feet the insecurities of everyday life, that part will always be incomplete

With no love as my anchor, to keep me grounded to reality Took chances with life, never really took a chance with me. Following the crowd, now lonliness stealthily creeps in Explored the world outside, couldn't make a life within.

The warmth of home weighs heavier than breathtaking scenery Always on the run, kept running away from Me.

Vee Barnes

Closer to my heart

I've been up for the sunrise

As it would set fire to the rain

Felt the raindrops kiss my skin

As they fell back down again

I've seen the bustling City

Where time spun faster than a wheel

Felt the chaos in madness

Yet I don't know how I feel

I'd been swimming with whale sharks

Yet it was all just a dream

Yet it looked like Paradise

Even though it made me scream

I've seen so many sunsets

That they all just look the same It feels so repetitive

It is almost like a game

I've been in crowded buildings Where I felt completely alone I think I've been here before Now it kinda feels like home

I've seen so many leave me

Yet this life is keeping on It often makes me wonder

Would they miss me when I'm gone For, I have been to many places

So I could be closer to my heart

Yet it feels like I've gotten nowhere

As though I barely made a start.

A Blessing

Kenneth Munene

I start the life on earth, Iam there for my kids forever, I am a man's other half, I help what he cannot do alone, I am someone's daughter,

And I am someone's sister, I bring happiness to a family, Every one feels my presence, Iam my husbands romantic satisfaction,

Showering every one my undivided attention, My position in the community cannot be substituted, I strive to achieve my desires,

I defend the truth with courage, am always in my true colours, I am naturally beautiful, Iam feminine but wonderful,

They all find peace in my embrace, I make every one to smile, My warm hug could cure all pains, I am a blessing like season's rain,

I am a woman and Iam intelligent, Iam eloquent even in my silence,. Everything about me screams godess, I protect my loved ones like a lioness.

Amrita Mallik

we both exist...

You and me, poles apart, yet we both exist, Me and my independent thinking, Seeks emancipation away from the cage, Away from the patriarchal orders,

I behold my dreams and happiness fly And, on the same plane, you're there, With a conservative and manipulative setting, How you've imbibed the patriarchy,

And, pose a threat to me, all the time, Without moving and uttering a promising word! From the seven seas, I brought breeze for you, Only to be humiliated and abused,

For the sake of making another woman free, You've made me the staunch enemy of your family, Ah! What have I got for extending help!

As I've learnt the need for self-love,

I've stopped reacting and reciprocating, Even refrained from helping you out, For you don't deserve anyone but you, To teach you the need for self-respect.

Strange is the world where we live, A rational woman is a threat, Even to a woman who is all tied, Yet, she won't move her finger a bit, And, clme closer and break the ice. And so, I discern of letting it be, Let me not hate or vilify myself, Sometimes you don't participate,

And that's perfectly sane and affordable, Let me just be myself, breathing and ignoring.

Lucy A. Mendiola

My world, my sweet wine

Hey lady!

Can I share you a story?

Coz' I can see it in your eyes

The woman I used to be

Always looking for something

Never seem to be contented

Always hungry for adventure

And yet, couldn't. find

What she truly wanted My dear lady, I've been to many places In palaces and paradise

Dancing with the rich and famous Drink the sweetest wine

Even spent precious moments to the one I thought I have fallen in love with

In a bed of roses sprinkled with sweet perfume And yet emptiness drowned me

Making my heart heaved in pain

World of extravagance is not mine, I realized Happiness I cannot find

So here I am With the real love I found In a world so far from what I dreamed of This little child I am holding The man I make love to at night

They are my world And my sweet wine

A phantasmagorical arousing illustration Lady

Sehma Helaa

Daniel Miltz

I an attractive young fellow

Resting in thought paradise In thinking reflection

In a rainbow

Humble, garden

Revering a greatness

Holding lilies

With dots rosary

Like a heavenly messenger, becoming Offering recognition in divine gift

Above holy messengers to me flying

A blessed reflective spot, in skying

Been there commonly

In any case

It has never been to me

Lady, I tried to follow your steps I see, you are taken into life errands you have no time for me, I stepped over every threshold and sang upon

Flowered balcony I thumbed books to find melodious words to offer I wanted words to bloom

Reach your heart and prosper Lady, you could never be Ashtar, with one thousand lover I want you to fathom every word

when a loving heart starts to Twitter I clutched upon sails swallowed by waves, taking me to your door

strolling between Marseilles

Carthage, Sicily, and every teeming shore I just wished I could see you lurk Waving a smile, from a shining afar

To tell me that when the voyage comes to an end I shall be the shoulder you lean upon The serene smile of a devoted friend

This limited edition of March 2023 is all about women and their stories. As we celebrate the International Women's Month, the writers of Poetry Planet Group were given the privilege to reveal their voices along with some men that joined them in their victory of the freedom to speak.

Beginning in the mid-19th century, several generations of woman suffrage supporters lectured, wrote, marched, lobbied, and practiced civil disobedience to achieve what many Americans considered a radical change of the Constitution. Few early supporters lived to see final victory in 1920.