They call her strong
as if it is a compliment
as if she has a choice.
She carries the weight
of everyone she loves
and she stands tall
her spine, unbroken.
She has learned
how to hold up the sky
and flame the hearth each day;
without anyone asking
if she needs a break
if she is tired.
Even when her hands shake,
even when her bones ache,
she will not let it fall;
because that is what women do
they hold everything together
even when no one is holding them.