Am I really Independent?

A Poem by life_seeker

Thoughts of a woman

I wonder..

If I'm truly independent
Or is it another curtain
Hiding the truths I'm not yet ready to see...

When I take a late night taxi alone
Fearing for my safety
Sharing my whereabouts with my partner..

When I challenge patriarchy
Keeping my father's surname
after marriage...

When I plan my finances
Avoiding thoughts of double taxation
And uncertainty...

When I opt for sustainable options
Asking recommendations
From AI chat models...

When I feel grateful to my ancestors
Who taught me to be resilient
Missing the knowledge that was passed down over generations...

When I fight my battles
Feeling privileged that I can raise my voice
Unlike many women I know...

I wonder..