Headline Poem 3/5/14 -- The Blood Ban

(Photo credit Yahoo News)

I saw this headline this evening about women in Nepal and Chaupadi, the tradition of banishing women "during that time of the month." It took me instantly back to college and a Women's Studies class where we learned about a similar practice of the Papago Women who run while menstruating, and return only when done. I imagine there are plenty of potential comments about banning bleeding women once a month not being such a bad thing, but in Nepal, women are dying during these bans... are traditions worth keeping?

The Blood Ban

Cycles predictable
and inevitable
endured
around the world
chocolate 

and a "luxurious"
bubble tub

Cramps rip and moan

relax
at home

Communal baths,

cleansing and connecting 

Iron liquid 

hues the color of nature's walls

meet the sun

Scales weigh in,
another view

Red sharks devour prey

A blood threat
spreads

Run to release

escape
chores and children

and community 

Danger lurks outside temple walls
in Nepal
Chaupadi bans 

Women

Shunned,
Do not touch

leave

Strong enough ones,

may return

to endure another month
and to observe

replaceable warrior

swollen river
thick with tradition 

Stewing

Melting

Raw

Brand new
like dew