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Fat Alice

The World can be a cruel place With rigid standards of the norm And heaven help a being who Openly doesn’t try to conform. Fat Alice they called her Not exactly PC For the person wasn’t fat Nor willingly a she. Gender undetermined Was that persons choice And it face the world with An exquisitely powerful voice That could charm the birds Down from the trees Evocative of the wind Blowing off the gentle seas. Far Alice conquered the world But led a very stressful life Always seeming to live on The very edge of a knife. For when a person is different Society doesn’t bother to ask why And, no matter how talented, can turn And suddenly hang them out to dry. With admiration respect to a transgendered friend who, at times, goes through hell, but always with great dignity.

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Di11y Da11y

Date: 3/31/2023 6:46:00 AM

I was slightly concerned when I read the title and I've read so much on here where people get very worked up about what PC means for them and everyone comments the world has gone mad and my heart aches. It was a joy to read your poem that recognises difference doesn't need to matter. I can't imagine anyone in these situations are doing it as a trend to follow, there's no appreciation that if you aren't in their shoes then sometimes it just can't be understood but it doesn't mean it's wrong

Terry Ireland
Date: 3/31/2023 8:46:00 AM

Well said. In my working career I had to meet and deal with the public. So many had hard lives because they followed their hearsts and suffered terrible bias. We are all human and deserve respect and understanding.

Speaks Volumes

Date: 3/18/2023 4:18:00 AM

When will we all learn that different is good? When will that be understood? When will agree that different should be acclaimed, so no one ever need feel ashamed? The battles some people go through, but for the grace of God, could be happening to me or you. . A wonderful Poem Terry.

Terry Ireland
Date: 3/18/2023 3:01:00 PM

Thanks Wen - we have a transgendered in the family and it’s been hell for them, but seems settled now.

Daniel Turner

Date: 3/17/2023 2:41:00 PM

Terry, all I can say is, Haters gotta hate. That doesn't make it right but love conquers all. Poem with a meaningful message. Have a great weekend.

Terry Ireland
Date: 3/18/2023 1:57:00 AM

Thanks Daniel - you too. Yep, prejudice, hate etc. sad we haven't yet grown out of them.

Ilene Bauer

Date: 3/17/2023 1:43:00 PM

It must be so tough for those who are different. It sounds like you’re a great friend, Terry…

Terry Ireland
Date: 3/18/2023 1:58:00 AM

Thanks ilene. Life can be hard enough without brig different, but a fr9end is a friend regardless.