Monster

It never ceases to amaze me when people are afraid of me. I realize that the ability to instill fear is a gift at times, but feared is never something I aspired to be. As a girl, I learn through implication to infer that I should be ashamed. I am not ashamed, though. I will not apologize for being formidable. I have the good fortune to survive a great many difficult situations, and I don't question it.

And yet.

There are those who characterize my strength with monstrosity. They are those who fear me. They are those who wish to topple me.

I say let them be afraid, and remain afraid, of me. If it is a monster they see when they look at me, then I will remain strong and give them what they want.