This poem was inspired by the riots in Charlottesville, and the attacks on black and brown bodies all over the world.
If I am to die tonight,
Cradle me in the arms of the angels.
Where all is good and pure.
Where the air is clean, and the soil is fertile.
When I die, bury me in a garden.
Plant roses in the soil next to my decaying carcass, and let the lesson in that be gentleness.
Let the riots cease, if only for but a moment.
My soul is weary from its homesickness.
If I die tonight, tell them that we must carry on.
Lay magnolias and gardenias by my bedside so that even in death there is beauty.
Take the torch, and carry on.
Light the way to freedom, child.
Light the way to justice.
Swim if you must, but I beg you not to stop paddling.
If I die tonight, sink me into the river, for that is home.
If I die tonight, light the lamps, and say a prayer.
Worry not.
I was ready. (more…)
