As Black As Black Can Be

I was born on floating wood

I drifted beside the graves

of many before me.

I touched land and found hope

had gotten lost while out at sea,

I was forced to find it on my own.

I am a Survivor

I watched as venom rampaged

through the souls of the lost.

I felt pity for the doers,

misunderstanding the cost.

I knew hatred sought a home

in this broad chest of mine

but in me, one could not find.

I am a Survivor

I followed the trail of the goddess

who strongly wished upon a star

in constant pursuit of a north so far.

I found solace in my freedom

but found pain in the thought

of those who were left behind.

I am a Survivor

I drew a line in my skin

for every soul that was lost

until I was black as black can be.

I learned to seek love for the pile

of all the bodies defiled

and change the world a single tear at a time.

I am a Survivor

_________________________

*Inspired by Nikki Giovanni’s “Ego Tripping (there may be a reason why)” [1943]