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Lilith

As a figure in history and legend, she is mythic 
but was regarded as parasitic and horrific.
She was demonized and dehumanized;
a woman so fiery,
known for notoriety and impropriety;
a mistress of seduction,
corruption and obstruction,
haughtiness and ungodliness.

Banished for not obeying Adam,
she embodied the fears of man:
a symbol of emasculation,
a primordial she-demon.

There is another side to her story.
Perhaps she deserves to be covered in glory.

She was strong and independent
and while facing resentment
for not being subservient,
she was unrepentant.
For many women, she is transcendent;
a figure so mythical
for feminine strength, she is the pinnacle,
her assertiveness: unequivocal.

Her name means "belonging to the night",
but she may be the brightest light
because - her admirers make no apology -
she represents equality.

Copyright © Jim Healey

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Book: Shattered Sighs