Through The Looking Glass

When you look at me, what do you see?

Do you see a strong black queen or is that just me?

I am not filled with anger or animosity

But could you blame me if you lived a life like me?

To be taught about love and happy endings...

But then reminded that black queens barely win

We get the cheater, the wife beaters, and non-committers

Then we are called ungrateful for not loving the men we get

When we fight to change these miserable men’s lives

They pick up that emotional knife and ensure that scar really bites

So I will ask again,

When you look at me what do you see?

Don’t be superficial, its time to weigh in

Do you see the anger and hostility?

Look closer, now do you see what I mean

That anger is from countless disappointments, broken promises, and silenced pain

Pain from the internalized self hate

From the people saying we aint great

The hostility emerges from kindness unreturned

From over working and still people not seeing our worth

When I look in the mirror, this is what I see

A strong black queen trying to make it on the scene

Being told that we are second class, knowing well from birth that we inherit this earth

They want to keep us down, quiet, and intimidated

But the queen I am, fears no evil

The queen I am will work as hard as it takes

Will fight as long as it takes

Will lead for as long as it takes

Because no matter how long it takes

I will remain a queen destined to claim my blessings

I will not cling to a man

I will not work unless I’m paid my worth

I will stand up for my people and myself

I will be who the hell I choose to be

Black and proud until eternity

So when you see me, don’t wonder about me

Understand that true beauty is indescribable

That true love is untouchable

That black power is undeniable