A Son’s Order

Son, I look at you and wonder who you will be.

Will me and Papi shape you into a respectful young man?

Will you be able to share your emotions and not be afraid to cry?

You are growing up fast and one day walk out that door

I know these streets are mean, especially to young boys who aren’t white

You charmed your way into my heart with that dimpled smile but doesn’t mean it will work on that officer

There was a report of a Hispanic male your height robbing a white woman near by

You are just trying to come home but they stop to search you

Stay calm son even though your heart feels heavy

You know you did nothing wrong

You heard what police do to colored boys

You don’t want to be another one who’s last breath is calling out for his parents. “Daddy” or “papi” won’t be your last words!

John Q said it best “I will not bury my son, my son will bury me!”

I shake my head and I’m back. I’m holding you as you sleep. You are still a baby. My baby who will one day be a man.

Daddy fears for your safety. There is still colored bodies being killed everyday.

Parents still have to prepare their boys to be soldiers when they go out on those streets as early as 13.

Their order is simple, come back home from that battle field they walk every day.