Heroes for a Modern Girl
by Pamela Schloesser Canepa
The poet Maya Angelou
shared wise words that moved me so.
Songbird Nina Simone
Did not fear walking alone.
Nikki Giovanni
Laid the truth on me.
Mom bravely raised me alone,
in the warmest, loving home.
Simone deBouvaire taught me
women are not property.
Toni Morrison’s Pilate
was free like a wild lilac.
And I thank them all
for helping me stand tall.
Men’s rules, commandments, and laws
once confined us, we felt lost.
But there was no stopping
rebels like Janis Joplin.
I benefit from their stand,
and I’m fed by my own hand.
I thank them all
For helping me stand tall.
pamelascanepa 
It’s wonderful to be reminded of some of the powerful women in history. We’ve been constantly put down, but we always get up again. Thank you!
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I once went through a year of reading all the feminist Literature I could. I needed strengthening. It helped! There are so many good examples!
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I agree. Throughout my teen years I found much inspiration from Plath, as well. Her raw expression showed me that I didn’t have to feel alone in my suffering. Simone has been a favorite for a long time as well. I continue to find strength through different voices to this day.
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I LOVE all your modern heroes. They are mine too…especially Maya Angelou.
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