My Health Comes Above All

We are built differently.

Only we can know our vulnerability.

It is not optional,

but priority, our duty.

I can walk in rain and cold,

eat fibrous foods and digest well,

study for 14 hours at a stretch.

But can I tolerate

chemicals on my skin?

No.

I worked in a chemical lab,

wearing scrub, hands exposed.

So, I always wore a black jacket,

a barrier works against threats.

The lab was frigid

for the devices,

which my hypothyroid body,

with cold intolerance

found excruciating,

yet I continued,

don't our lives revolve around,

the few bucks earned?

That day was the last straw.

The adjacent office building,

was being painted,

volatile oil in the air circulation,

some drops landed on my throat.

Only my face, hands

and throat were exposed.

Immediately, I felt red hives,

pain, hot swelling,

all signs of inflammation,

chemical irritation,

the immune system being provoked.

My father would be boasting

My daughter work in the USA.

And here I am, getting sick.

My health is more important

than anybody’s ego or status,

company's profit.

I quit, and felt relieved.