Ode to the Color Purple

Negros in chains, but no bonds can bond hope
I figure my life is settled now, but I can still see the rope 
It hangs round my neck and warns me of trouble
Been there so long, it looks like my stubble
I don't live in fear, but fear the life I have 
My ancestors died and my tears are all dried
The color purple, reminds me of pain 
The suffering I know, the covering rain 
But if there's one thing I'll do 
It's lift my head high, the way I know how to 
Forgive me if I die with the frown I was born 
My children carry my smiles, like a jar too filled
I know they'll be in scorn but the hope lives on, always will