armor

I’ve worn my pain like armor,

Now there is no need.

Especially when I see

that my anxiety

is a

Burden.

I’ve expressed myself authentically

While intentionally hiding my pain.

I’ve gone to the depths of me and realized

I’m not so scary.

I will not implode,

Explode

Evaporate

Or discenigrate

I imagined I am stronger than I think.

And my thoughts take flight

Have you laughing with Aladdin

On a magic carpet ride.

So I will protect you

from my shadow

By standing in my power and healing

That “I’m a bad mutha…

“shut yo mouth.”

From the womb of Jim Crow parents

And sharecroppers of Mississippi

Granddaughter to a grandmother who

remembers that her grandmother was “an African”

How could I ever rob you from infinite joy

And rest that is your birthright?

When your home is justice

and patience gives way to the revolutions fight.

I will not be a “Baby Mama”

With all this drama.

I will be a “Bad Motha…

“Shut yo mouth”