To [From] Every Child of Color

I didn’t ask to be born.
I didn’t choose the color of my skin.
Whether my family is of privilege or poor –
These are the cards I was given.
I am told I am ugly.
Society has lowered my worth.
I am judged for what’s been part of me,
since my birth.
I can’t say – I don’t care –
Because I have a heart beating here.
I will admit that your words sting.
After all you attacked my being.
But I am more than you choose to see.
And expect more of myself than you want me to be.
So I won’t let you define me.
I won’t give you the power to path my journey.

But know – the more you focus on me,
you will miss your chances, your opportunities.
You will be your own obstacle
and the hindrance to your growth.
If it’s negativity you choose to spew,
Likely it will circle back to you.
It may linger in one area for a while.
But it won’t stay confined over time.
And if it’s divide and divisiveness you breed then expect it can follow and surround your off-springs and their seeds.
Because what you put out to the Universe becomes available for all to receive.
I am – my Creator made me.
Some of you preach – Life is sacred.
Yet you don’t want for me to be.
I do – My responsibility.
But I am not responsible for all of the ills of our society.
Nor for the discomfort you feel when you see or are around me.
You – I will respect and accept you as part of my community.
But I will not let you ruin me.
As much as I can – I will control my destiny!