One Woman’s Words

One way we work to empower the women who come to Calvary Women’s Services is through our Life Skills educational program. The topics taught in these staff and volunteer-led daily workshops range from budgeting to healthy eating to self-esteem. In these classes, we also urge women to express themselves by participating in healthy outlets like art and creative writing.

In a recent poetry class, one Calvary resident sat down and penned this poem. Her powerful words are posted up on the bulletin board at Calvary Women’s Shelter, and now we want to share them with you too.

Still Strong
by Ajaunae

No longer must we cry; no longer must we allow our hearts to wither and die; no more must we live in fear, in the shadows stalking us from previous years; no more must we lay submissive under our demons; no more eternal soul screaming; no more dreaming!

Wake up to the reality that you still breathe breath; wake up knowing you still have your health; the reality you can still speak; the reality you are far from weak!

I see your despair; I see the wisdom growing from your hair; I see in your eyes the feelings of defeat; but it’s you I see, therefore your battle is BEAT!

Don’t drown in them, right your wrongs! Women, you that is, women you are indeed *Still Strong*

If you would like to lead a life skills class, or learn more about our life skills program, please contact Mary McGregor (202) 289-2111.

Recent Posts

Back to Blog
September 14, 2023

Virtual Time Capsule: A Conversation with Ela…

Elaine Johnson began working at Calvary Women’s Services in 2013, just as the organization moved into our first permanent location, Good Hope, and was quickly tasked with launching our educational…
October 30, 2023

Gifting Joy: Inside the Heartwarming Accessor…

Calvary Women’s Services recently hosted an Accessories Party, creating a unique and uplifting experience for Calvary’s programs. Schwanna Cockerham-Qualls, a dedicated therapist at Calvary Women…
October 4, 2023

Breaking the Silence: Calvary Honors Domestic…

Did you know that 39% of women and 25% of men in Washington, DC have reported experiencing some form of domestic violence? This alarming statistic underscores the harsh reality faced by many women in…