She was 23 when her father slapped her
Because,
A child remains a child in her parents’ eyes no matter the age
A child shouldn’t have a mind of her own
A child shouldn’t be opinionated
Just listen and do as told
Parents are always right, darling.
Because,
How could a girl say her father is wrong even when he is?
When are fathers ever wrong?
How could a girl own a voice, a voice that doesn’t agree with her dad’s?
Because,
How could a girl have opinions?
How could a girl not be a girl?
Silent when she’s yelled at
Silent when she’s accused wrongly
Silent when her opinions are different
Silent when she’s in pain
Silent
Silent
Silent when she’s 33 and her husband slaps her
Didn’t dad already say I have no right to speak?
That I have no right to own a voice?
That elders are always right?
Author: Azeeza Adeowu