As Daddy’s little girl, I was a Disney princess—
 spinning in Barbie’s plastic heels,
 wishing upon a star,
 where Prince Charming was brave, and love
            was a glass slipper away from happily ever after.

As a teenager, I was called his Queen
 determined by a school boy,
 who promised to protect me.
 Instead, he clipped my wings,
            dictating the kingdom without me.

[I wanted a throne
            declaring mutiny on the hierarchy.]

As a woman, I rise— an Empress in my empire
 where I chose the man,
  who stands beside me,
  who worships me,
 not just the crown.
            And with his love, I found my own.