because I am black

because I am black

I must recognize the color of my skin

and stay within the boundaries

set for me

in my pen

because I am black

I must realize the shade of my hide

to save it

and to keep on livin' on

and bury my pride

because I am black

I must be held in my place

denied all rights and liberties

for I'm not a human, but a race

because I am black

I must work twice as hard

and twice as long

to prove myself equally tough

and equally strong

because I am black

I must be able to show no fear

for their strength is your sorrow

when the sun disappears

because I am black

death is not punishment of the sword

but for my faith and endurance

a welcomed reward

because I am black

I can not stop because I tire

I must push on

and burn on

and continue thsi awesome fire

because I am black

I do not have the freedom to lack

do not have the choice to slack

do not have the choice to turn back

because I am black

March 12, 02