How long...

How long must you wait for someone to notice
who you are
what you are
where you are
before you realise they will not ever
know you
really know you
how long must you stand behind shade
skirts
partitions
like a small child—
cower
hide
before you are noticed for what you can offer
can do
can be
how long before your time is up
the boat has left the dock
the breeze blows the other way
your life has passed you by
and you have aged—
grey hair
no hair
no memory
how long before you stand up for you
have a voice that is loud
proud
strong
believing in yourself
your self worth
your talents
your values
your life
how long...