If, For Women (Multi-Year, Rhymes) Poem by Morgan Balanaser

If you are kind, yet firm
If you avoid frivolity, and promiscuity - lest you get burned
If you choose your husband well and; love, respect, and accept him for who he is, warts and all
If you follow his lead without resentment
But let him know when you think he makes the wrong call
If you engage in society without being influenced by it
And always choose principle over politics, or ideology - no matter the rift
If you put family first unwaveringly, and unrepentantly
But not neglect self-care
If you, with your husband only, your pleasure's share
If you can avoid speaking ill of your husband - especially around your kids
If you can know your mind - but not always have your way
Appreciate your looks if you will, but don't rely on them to carry the day
Likewise, be more than your reproductive capacity
If you can admit when you're wrong, and accept apologies when others err
If you always keep in mind the work, and sacrifices others make
And not dismiss men's cares
Nor condemn men for showing weakness, or vulnerability
If you can be patient, kind, and understanding
But know when enough's enough
If you can always be true to yourself
My daughter, you'll be grown up