Rebirth February 2008 

Sometimes I forget

I am a big black woman/

little colored girl

from North Carolina.

Rarely, occasionally,

now and then

when I am alone,

my thoughts become
completely my own.

They don't "represent" my lot

or the political implications

stamped on my head

for just thinking, for envisioning

a world not hostile

to creatures of my complexion.

An existence embracing

brave soul rebels

who dare defy limitations.

Now and then I am

every and anything I feel.

In those moments,

I feel profoundly appropriate;

Unquestionably necessary;

Irrepressibly beautiful;

Immune to comparison

or judgment.

It is a resting place,

a holiday journey

outside the walls

crafted to hold me.

I am Kali,

Lover of trees,

Maker of miracles,

Groomer of life,

Mother of death,

Giver of all

things inevitable,

unseen,

unexplained.

I am Energy,

at rest in a

spectral peace

risen above

my own desperate demands.

In and of it all.

I am real.

No questions asked.

My songs spill

through space,

tear holes in

useless defenses.

My moon shines

Through steel walls.

My breath warms glaciers.

My hands heal plagues.

When this solace

cloaks my spirit

and dissolves

my false categories,

I dream the

wildest scenarios.

There, I fling aside

all armor -

loosen up to love.

I share my pillow lips,

shower my sweetheart

making magic live

As one

in two souls.

I frolic in ecstasy

at every breath

in each task

with every friend

and stranger.

When I am nameless,

without label,

my life is infinitely

possible.

Strong, wild, sparkling

work drives my days.

Gifts of laughter

caress my nights.

Image and touch

create constant sanctuary.

An earth-red refuge.

All that exists

at this sacred hearth

is truth, humility,

power, clarity,

and my soul's naked grace.