2ND Place Winner – Lesedi Robertson
“Where I’m From”
I am from dark, glitzy teal curtains from
Troubles, strength and stubbornness and
Wisdom. From bath & body works scents
And Suave Shea Butter shower gel.
I am from the brazen yelling of a quaint
Cracking, goldish, linen aroma house.
I am from the hatred and regret of a
Black woman has for the birth of an
Unwanted child.
I am from weather rocks and tiredness
A black father as dealing with whiplash
A black women has, colored with the
Smoke of anger and regret.
I’m from Xmas and black pride.
The challenges, lies, fears, restraints
That people around me placed.
I’m from the accusations and anger.
I’m from the tendency to bottle,
To drink.
From anger and bitterness. From mother
And father. From vivid hopes, wishful dreams,
Worthlessness and disappointment.
I’m from the Christians, parading in the
Word of their god. From the atheist
Side of the world. Always looked down
Upon almost, as if I was the anti-christ.
I’m from Louisiana in all it’s black
History, soul food, celebrations and
Lack of grander life.
From the strength and wrath of my
Short great (x5) grandmother. Using
That knife of cane and striking her
“owner” of hearing.
I’m from the wisdom and humor
My grandfather had, although
Hidden in photos under my bed.
Protecting the little that’s left
Of a time before me and yet
After Katrina’s destruction.
I’m from the darkness. Cliché
But lashing out on those who
Care.
I’m from the laughs and tears.
I’m from the strength that pain
And hardships caused me.
I’m from the strength of a person
Who has been hurt, kicked, beat,
Broken, tormented.
Physically, verbally and mentally.
I am from my pain. I am from hatred.
I am from regrets. I am from lustful desires.
I am from my hope, I am from love,
I am from dreams. I am from clarity.
I am from my past.