I took a vow of silence
For all those without a voice—
This simple little metaphor
Left me without a choice.

I had to remain silent:
No whispers, no utters,
Much like those whose mouths
Must be closed shutters.

For if I spoke a single phrase,
My voice would surely be heard,
Simply because I live in a country where
Not listening is absurd.

However, it is different for all those
For whom I took this vow—
Many speak in general,
But limit what their mouths allow.

They do not have the freedom
To express just how they feel.
They cannot mention what they hate
Or what, to them, does not appeal.

I did not once break my promise,
I kept my lips sewed tight;
Others questioned why I did it,
But I persevered on, despite.

You see, this oath of silence
Was not meant to take my words;
It was meant to make me understand
What it feels to not be heard.