Shake Hands and Come Out Fighting Another Look At Selective Freedom of Speech Satan's Under-Takers Time to Play She Whose Eyes Sparkle With Wisdom and Beauty I'm Your Girl Love (in parentheses) Ms. Melanin! (A Dedication to The Black Woman) Beautiful Girl Consistency for My Rib 5 Senses The Game Maya Angelou is a Phenomenal Woman Smile Renewed Sense of Purpose It's My Love Too Homeless Yesterday's Black Fathers

Faces of different shades fill crowded streets.

Looks of dismay and depression,

Hope can be seen deep in their eyes.

Skin almost faded,

Damaged from pollutants


Broken spirits swarm the city air.

Clogged lungs make it hard to

Breath,

Speak,

Scream.


Hearts grow cold,

But still beat with hope.

Surviving the torment--

Dreams become blurry.

Far from arms reach

Or the minds perception

Time has taken its toll.


Yet, the will to press on is stronger

Than the voice signaling to give in

For they know life is more complex,

With different layers yet to be seen.

So, they press on passionately---


Walking,

Strutting,

Running,

Along the sidewalk with hope

And a renewed sense of purpose.

© 2009 Ervin M. Thomas