Unwritten rules

Morning dawns, I wake, and fold my bed alone.

I take on my brother's chores, cook noodles with care.

Mom's gentle voice whispers, "Make extra for your brother."

I sigh, and obey, though questions simmer beneath.

Why does she expect me to serve, while he rests free?

On my birthday, I yearn for a new dress, a splash of color.

My aunt's laughter echoes, "Why bother? We stay at home."

Frustration boils, I snap, "I don't need a dress."

But deep down, I crave recognition, a sense of worth.

Dad's hands hold a form, an opportunity unfolds.

My brother's path to engineering, a future to mold.

I remember asking, "Why not me?"

Papa's words, "You're a girl, we're afraid."

The sting of inequality, a wound that won't heal.

I scored higher marks, yet doors closed tight.

Why fear girls who venture out?

Isn't courage measured by heart, not gender?

My ears and eyes weary of injustice's weight.

Enough! Who defines girls as weak?

Give us opportunities, responsibility's reins.

Treat us equally, and watch us thrive.

In homes where equality blooms, girls gain strength.

Boys learn to see us as equals, a bond to mend.

It's just a step, a spark to ignite change.

-M. Ramla Fatima