I happily own my color

Even if they tried, they would probably still never be able to see.

Not because they do not have eyes, they do; but because even

Though God Saw it fit to endow them with eyes, he did not give

Them the deeper sight of love, tolerance and equanimity.

Such superficial people will see and yet not be able to see that

Behind my dusky skin tone, behind the ebony kissed bronze,

Behind the chocolate brown hues of the eyes that are shy,

There is a heart that beats the same rhythm as theirs.

To such people I shall never be beautiful for I am dark skinned.

These are the people who shall control my destiny as a woman

They shall decide my fate and my future, my alliance & life.

Not I, but my color shall decide what path I take.

To such people I openly challenge – be me for a day, live my life.

I am comfortable being who I am, I am happy in my own skin

But I dare you to just try to own my color; walk in my shoes, for a day.

I guarantee, you will not be able to cope; but I happily accept and hope.