I Am

I am not dark skin. I am the sound of deep cognition. I am the voice of thought-provoking composition. So, if you feel like you are fiending just to stay and listen; Yo—I wouldn't even blame you, be it that I am dope's definition. I am conscious thought. Therefore, I am a mind distraught; Seeing my brothers and sisters dim themselves to less than the stars which many escaped slaves sought. I am a child of strong ancestry; Who strides in their skin—the color of bravery. I am the hope that rose from slavery As foretold by Mr. Booker T. I am the many tears from the lies Of stereotypes that don't realize That I am the truth. I am me. Malcolm was slain so that I could be. Langston bruised and, heart, heavy with hurt Doubted the power of his praying words But I am living result of cries heard. Yes, I am the flight of Maya's caged bird. I am the nightmare of J. Edgar Hoover, Because I am the dream of Martin King Junior I am foolish. I am flawed. I am not quick to give someone my all. But I am victory. I know my promise. I know who I am Because I know who God is. Therefore, I am erasing society's brand Because everything I'm not has made me everything I am. And clearly? I am not just dark skin.