Rupi Kaur is hands down my favorite poet. She is relevant. She is strong. She is honest. And she is simple, yet complex.
I have yet to read a poem of her's that doesn't intrigue me. However, when I read "to fathers with daughters" from Milk and Honey, it didn't just peak my interest or make me smile. It resonated with me. I read it once. Twice. A third time. And honestly, I still find myself rereading it from time to time.
This poem speaks to those of all age groups and genders. It particularly speaks to me, a growing woman who had a less than sheltered childhood. I do not remember many instances that consisted of my father yelling at me. Maybe that is because he gave so little opportune for those moments. I've seen the repercussions of his life choices pan out in my character traits, my relationships, my fears, and my victories.
I am the owner of a very vulnerable yet big heart. I expect nothing but the worst from men who take interest in me. I am afraid of people who pose a flight risk. And I try with all of my might to achieve my goals, and prove that I am important.
Everything that a father does, whether that be verbal or physical abuse or even nothing at all, to his children will impact them for the rest of their lives. Children hear things. They understand more than we will ever realize. So fathers, next time you consider yelling at your daughter for painting your nails while you were napping, be good sport and wear them to dinner. I promise she will remember how you react.
