This is one stanza of a 7 stanza poem written on a piece of papyrus dating back to New Kingdom Ancient Egypt. The Poem tells of a couple very much in love but separated. I particularly like this stanza where the woman talks about her difficulties in going about everyday life when separated from her lover. I think there is very little difference between what this woman says and what a modern day woman in the same situation would feel.
My heart bares itself instantly,
at the memory of your love.
It does not let me walk like a person,
it has strayed from its shelter.
It does not let me put on a dress,
I cannot even wrap my scarf,
No kohl can be put no my eye,
I am not anointed with oil.
'Don't stand there - go in to him'
it tells me at each memory of him.
Don't, my heart, be stupid at me:
why are you acting the fool?
Sit, be cool, the sister has come to you'
but my eye is just as troubled.
Don't make people say of me
'she is a woman fallen by love'
Be firm each time you remember him,
My heart, do not stray.