I may not be a woman

But I grew up as a girl.
 
I may not be a woman
But I learned to turn off any music
When I walk through the night,
The proper ways to hold keys
So I could defend myself if needed 
To be alert when walking by myself
In case someone decided to hurt me.
 
I may not be a woman
But I was told to go for the eyes, ears, balls
Anything I could reach to get myself away.
To scream as loud as possible
And to make as much noise as I could
 
I may not be a woman
But I’ve experienced harassment
From peers and people who viewed me as one
Harassment from random guys on the street
Who thought I looked nice
Harassment for just being born
In the body of a girl.
 
I may not be a woman
But I was taught to fear men.