How Strong Does a Black Woman Have to Be?

How strong does a black woman have to be?
Strong enough to create civilization
And then educate a nation
Strong enough to carry the burdens of the world
Yet turn the lessons into pearls
Strong enough to endure heartache and pain
While not allowing her dignity to wane

How strong does a black woman have to be?
Strong enough to do hard labor with poise
And in her spare time make men out of boys
Strong enough to struggle with ease
While other women do as they please
Strong enough to face her fears
Never revealing her private tears

How strong does a black woman have to be?
Strong enough to bear solitude
While outwardly letting confidence exude
Strong enough to call on the Most High
When no one else hears her cries
Strong enough to know when to say
I don’t have enough strength today