More drafts.

[ennia]

The day you first realize that life is unfair
Is the day you first enter the fray
And it is the first day you understand
That fighting back is not something girls do.
And that fairness only matters when you fight
But that you don't have to fight for yourself.

So, as they slowly remove your life, stripping bits
Of your dignity and your rights through neglect
At some point, you realize that you have no choice but to fight
As the people who said they would stand join in confrontation
Gently step back to those who would restrict your speech,
While telling you your time has not come.

When you fight you are called strident,
Shouted down by those who do not value your shouts
And only listen when someone like them speaks for you.
But taking up arms to fight them hurts
And the fighting leaves you beat,
As you insist your voice is legitimate.

But if every word you utter gives another thirst
and reason to start fighting.
While the constant battle rages
Between reality and fantasy;
Reality means the bout continues,
Taking a bit of you with the clouts.