They say I have everything I could ask for.
That there’s no cause for me to complain.
Am I depressed or am I just lazy?
I wonder sometimes if I’m sane.

I am tired most all of the time.
Motivation has fled from my sight.
Why can’t I feel things more shallowly?
Sometimes everything feels like a fight.

A parent’s heart can feel heavy.
Fatigue and exhaustion at times wear me down.
Taking care of myself is too burdensome.
The load drags my soul to the ground.

Using hair products is not my jam.
My wrinkles need lotions and salve.
I work all week and take care of my family.
Wearing makeup is effort I don’t have.

I solve a backlog of problems.
Soothe everyone that despises change.
Making things better for people.
Listen to objections come down like the rain.

People tell ladies to smile so widely.
They say to be happy while they wear a smirk.
They judge mothers and call us ungrateful.
When we go out and we f’ing work.

Next time you sit on your high horse.
Running your mouth and prove you’re a bore.
Take your mediocrity and go shove it.
This is my life it’s okay to want more.

~Lella M Fulton

©2024 Copyright

This powerful poem delves into the raw emotions of exhaustion, self-doubt, and resilience. I wrote it because I was so tired of people telling me to smile. Seriously, shut up and leave working moms alone. This poignant piece captures the struggles of balancing motherhood, work, and personal identity while confronting societal expectations. With vivid imagery and heartfelt honesty, it resonates with women, mothers, and anyone seeking inspiration through poetry about mental health, empowerment, and the human experience. Dive into this evocative work that challenges stereotypes and celebrates the strength to demand more from life.