My Untitled Poem 15 Years Ago

FREEDOM RIDERS

Once again we're back to the same old thing. You're telling me it doesn't matter, the color of my skin, the wealth of my kin, the sex that I'm in. You say anyone can be anything they want to be, its all up to them. You say things like 'Lets stop blaming the system', 'Pull yourself up by your own boot straps', and 'Forget about slavery, It's all in the past'. I chose to enlighten you, but I should've stomped your ass. There are barriers that hold us back, and they're real. If you cant see them, cant you feel. I'm not telling you to lay down and die, or give up on everything before you try. But before you can go under, over, around or through any obstacle, you have to recognized them and set up a plan. Boot pulling just don't cut it my man. As for not blaming the system I tend to agree, It was never set up to serve you and me. The very foundations were built on our backs, and still we're the victims of racial, sexual, and economic attacks. Forgetting Slavery was high on your list, now I know you've sunk deep in your mental abyss. Forget the Murders, the sorrow, the pain? Forget the heroes, the struggles, the gains?  Forget Tubman, Turner, Vesey, and Scott? Its time you turn in that brain that you got. Could I forget my father and mother who brought me to life, who nurtured and guided me through many a strife. The struggles they endured were parallel to none, not only because I was their son. They had no Idea the person I'd be, yet most of their time was spent on me, They love me, because they loved themselves.  So when Tubman continuously risked her life to ensure the freedom of others, it was because she love them, because she loved herself. When Turner unleased the fury that was within him, it wasn't just the hatred of his oppressors. It was the love of his people, the love of himself. So the next time you decide to shoot off your mouth, be sure you know what you're talking about. Its easy to think that you've made it alone, with your fine clothes, fancy car and beautiful home. But without the struggles of those in the past, I'd watch your naked, walking, homeless ass. Sit in the streets and wonder why, as the white winged power just pass you by. So sit back and relax, and let your mind roam. Think of your life and that beautiful home. Then all who spilled blood to pave the way, and thank them for this glorious day.