Brother in Arms (A Male Ally’s Pledge)

I may not know your journey,
But I see your strength unfold
Like sunlight breaking through clouds,
Each ray unique, each path your own.

As your friend, your brother,
I stand not to shield or shape,
But to witness and support
The choices that define your way.

Some call you career woman,
Others mother, artist, guide -
Labels too small to hold
The vastness of your dreams.

I’ve learned to listen deeper
Than society’s loud demands,
To hear the wisdom in your voice
When you choose your sacred ground.

My sister in the courtroom,
Fighting battles with sharp words,
My friend who chose family,
Building futures day by day,
The one who travels solo,
Writing stories of her own -
Each path blazes bright and true,
Each choice worthy of respect.

I will not be the voice
That questions or commands,
But the steady presence
That trusts your inner compass.

When others raise their eyebrows,
Or whisper their demands,
I’ll stand beside you, saying
“Her choice, her strength, her way.”

You don’t need my permission,
Or anyone’s blessing to be
The architect of your own life,
The captain of your soul.

But know that in this brother
You have an ally true,
Who celebrates your victories,
However they may look.

Whether you wear a doctor’s coat,
Or paint your masterpiece at home,
Whether you build empires,
Or tend to tender hearts,
I honor every pathway
That leads you to your truth.

For I have learned this wisdom:
Power flows in many streams,
And freedom wears the faces
Of all who dare to choose.

So walk on, my sisters,
Through boardrooms or nurseries,
Through laboratories or studios,
Through whatever doors you open.

I’ll be here,
Not to lead or validate,
But to amplify your voice,
To guard your right to choose,
To celebrate the many ways
You light this world with grace.

This is my pledge as brother,
As friend, as fellow soul:
Your choices are your power,
Your diversity our strength,
And in your liberation,
We all become more free.