Trees and Tradition

My family tree is not rooted in tradition,

it’s foliage does not wear uniform green.

Our shine reflects the entire light spectrum,

a living, breathing diversification,

for all to see.

.

I wonder if anyone looks beyond

the ingrained colour classifications;

basic shades of white, black and mixed.

Because, we are so much more than

cosmetic shades of light, medium and dark.

.

We are green hearts, thumbs and grass-stains,

night fires of ice-blue and golden terracotta,

harsh concrete greys and earthy dirt roads.

We are pale blue and beige of freshly laid eggs,

the soft pinks and vanilla creams of peonies.

We are lake shimmer and snow sparkle.

.

Our irises run the gamut

from blue, brown and green;

so close to the Crayola colours

of a family tree, under blue sky.

A beautiful picture of tradition,

but it’s about time to diversify.