From a young age we are told to “be a lady,”

but what does that mean exactly? 

If we are to follow society’s rules, 
being a lady basically means being perfect. 
 
Smile, 
be confident, 
be a leader, 
be a team player, 
stand up straight, 
clean up the messes, 
use your manners, 
eat healthily, 
and always look the part. 
 
What if I am sad and lonely? 
What if I am shy and quiet? 
What if I want to work alone? 
What if I do not follow a strict diet? 
What if I stay home all day in my pajamas? 
What if I just want to be ME? 
 
Being myself is the only way I will ever learn. 
Being myself is the only way to know what I want in life, 
the only way to learn my true passions and dreams. 
I better start chasing myself and not what someone else tells me to be. 
 
So yes “be a lady,” 
but be a lady who knows who she is at heart.  
Be a lady who knows what she wants. 
Be a lady who is simply herself.