Of the Earth

When I was a child, my brown skin grew flowers

I was told that being the color of earth would welcome life to me

If I stayed in the grass too long, their roots would talk for hours

Sidewalks always turned into bridges, right into my neighbor's yards

They lit a candle every birthday

I could never forget the embrace of their arms

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When I look at 18th street, I see myself in window sills

Thick and fluffy clouds have always been shelters

For cumbias I danced, with dresses made of fabric hills

I loved the way my body was formed, I sprouted from my elders

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I always grew up with women who carefully trimmed my leaves

They loved the yellow petals I had

They always hoped I could cross the seas

While I admired their red skies

I repeated the wise words they said with ease

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I thank the chloroplasts that nourished these colors

Who hugged me as I aged

I danced in rain storms when the community strengthened me

I know that these blocks of buildings have remained

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Now that I am older, my identity hasn't faded

I am shades of every matriach, the prettiest of brown hues

The collection of strong emotions each woman has created

Resting within me, I see the past of family

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