Worthy

If it isn’t my skin, then what shall it be?

The two arms and legs that extend directly from me?

That enable me to run past the wind, and jump the hurdles in front of me.

Well then it must be my brains,

because the face in front of you is too tired on a week day

To wake up extra early and mask the effects of stress and age

It’s because of my parents then,

who’ve raised me to expect nothing but the best

I’ll give and expect the same as I take

But when I’m in competition of spoken word or written wit,

then it’s because I’m a girl.

Because I’m not like my brother, you see

And the mistakes I make are expected of me

No. It’s not because I’m black, Nigerian to be specific.

Not because my father is a devoted immigrant gynecologist

It’s not because I’m class president or varsity track or Debate Captain or a “natural speaker” and Drill team member on the side.

It’s because at the end of the day,

my gifts. Talents. and any single limb don’t belong to me.

I’m God’s girl and that.

That’s why I’m worthy.