Do It Again

By: A. Steeple, 7th Grade

I’m from streets that never sleep,
A family that always eats,
Baking and breaking everyday,
Making sure to eat them rice and beans,
A “get me a glass of water,”
And a “can I sleep with you?”
Not needing an answer,
Even though you say “get out my room!”
A fall. Then get up. The right choice to choose.
Living life
Because you never know
When it’ll come for you.

I’m from a family that speaks with a “hmph” and “um ummm,”
Loud heaters and albums and big bowls of fruits,
I’m from posters of Alvin Ailey and psychology books,
I’m from dreams of the future and ice in our cups,
I’m from a witness of people being taken in cuffs,
I’m from a take a risk and protect sort of adrenaline,
A community that chooses fists over speaking,
I’m from an infected world but a strong, healthy family,
I’m from my ability. I’m from my mentality.

I’m from the smell of sweet chocolate,
And stubbing my toe at 3 A.M.,
Rough and smooth surfaces,
Loud music in our ears,
I’m from two cats fighting outside,
And a barbecue down the street,
I’m from the sound of rain outside soothing me to sleep.

I’m from bumpy walls and smooth skin,
I’m from brown melanin and always renovating the kitchen,
Waking up to the smell of eggs and sausages on the grill,
I’m from going to sleep to wake up to do it again.

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