Freedom

Before I begin, Forgive me for my use of “vulgar” language. It’s sad that I have to use these words to get my point across. But if that’s what it takes for people to listen, So be it. Smart vs “slow” Professional vs “gangster” Respectful vs “hoodlum” African Americans vs “niggers” Don’t put labels on me Just because there’s a “label” on my skin. Don’t put labels on my people, Even if they succumb to them. Don’t be afraid of us. I know we’re different But different is beautiful. Just because we’re a darker shade Doesn’t mean we are the dark. I get it mistakes have been made in the past, But how do you make the same mistake Over and over again? People were scared back then, and I get it, But we’re not animals we’ve evolved now. Look at the Black Lives Matter Movement, Look at Martin, Nelson, Obama, Heck look at Oprah. All of us could be that, If people would stop putting labels on us And if we’d stop surrendering to them. We’re doing the best we can Under the circumstances we are given. Ever think that if We could actually finish for once You would see we’re the same as you…. Human? Not “blacks” not “coloreds” and definitely Not “niggers”. We are human. H-U-M-A-N. Just like the rest of the world. There is a difference between What we are thought to be, And what we truly are. When we’re little our parents tell us Always be yourself. But are we really allowed to do that? Do we really have the “freedom” to do so? The Constitution, The Declaration of Independence, The Pledge of Allegiance They all state we have freedom But do we? I’m starting to wonder what the Definition of freedom is. My definition is the ability to be myself And not be judged on the color of my skin. Freedom. Have we really ever tasted it? Nah, just an illusion. Like the over the counter medicine Your mom gives you when you’re sick. Promised flavors of strawberry, bubblegum and cherry. But when the liquid hits your tongue, You taste the bitter snake it really is, As it slithers down your throat. And now we have a president Who has promised nothing but Over the counter medication. God help us. When can we have a leader who Promises prescribed medicine That will actually make us healthy again? I’m hoping the answer is soon Because the last thing we need is someone piling more labels on. Now I know all people aren’t like this But America voted him in…. Says a lot, doesn’t it? So because of people like him My people and I will prove the world wrong By being smart not “slow” Professional not “gangsters” Respectful not “hoodlums” And we will be African Americans Not “niggers”.