Confident, Unafraid, and Resilient By Rania M M Watts

I was on the bus this morning working on my forthcoming book Trajectory, when I felt the sun on my face; for a moment this overwhelming wave of gratitude overpowered me with an overwhelming wave of gratitude. This week, my entire team came together to support International Women's Day 2023.

Val, I appreciate you never thinking my ideas are BONKERS and always delivering with, out of this world art, you make my heart swell with such appreciation. Liz, you are such a kind human who always thinks of those who are injured and constantly ask why? Which is such a rare gift. I'm ready for your July influx of Halloween & Christmas memes. Sonja, your dancer’s soul bleeds into your work, you place words in motion when you scribe; your expression is always so pure. I sincerely adore the underlining innocence emoted with so much playfulness ton in your work -- regardless of theme. Ari, what can I say? You're happiness incarnate with the ability to tell it like it is. Such a refreshing characteristic, especially when done with a massive smile on your face. Luke, I was overjoyed when you joined our team, your advocacy steeped intent, creativity, and emotive writing is a nice addition to the team. Loralie, I cannot thank you enough for stepping in for Luke and writing something so worthy of International Women's Day for women of all ages. I am incredibly grateful for all of you! 

Wishing you all so much love! 

Now, my contribution for IWD 2023. 

Confident, Unafraid, and Resilient 

One night 
   my brain rescued itself 
 intent placed to protect 
   from horrible intentions 
 a lucid dream state 
    and a vision 
  that would place shivers 
     on the most confident of bodies 
 it is of no consequence 
exist to reside 
    in our private universe

Arrogance permeates 
   altruistic declaration 
      fractured words 
  said with vibrations 
     of untruths 

    Collide in a brain 
  that refuses to believe 
     vulnerable in nature 
 resilient and healable
  there are forces 
    beyond this Earth 
  who manoeuvre intent 
  
  A puppet with bloodied strings 
    extricated from its capture   
 a China doll turns toward me 
    as I walk into a room 
obviously, a frozen painted expression 
   with fun red lips, flawless over 
       the lid black eyeliner 
   and plump lashes that yearn 
        
A gentle breeze took 
    hold of my chest
 swept me out of the room 
    slammed the door behind me 

   Tremendous 
       verity is exclusive
   promises are cemented 
      blood forges the agony 
  extraordinarily —

p.s. Stay tuned for one more special post for IWD!