Deeper Than My Deep Skin

Can you see deeper than my deep skin?

See my character and complexities Or only my complexion akin

To cocoa? Cocoa is all you know of me, it seems. You don’t listen when I speak. Instead, you contemplate what to steal next. I’m sure you’d rather I be mild and meek

As you take the way I talk, and look, and dress. Strip away my image from my person. It’s your last chance to truly see me. I stand bare. Your eyesight only worsens.

You don’t recognize my humanity, although you stare. I show you the intelligence and passions within But you reach no further than the richness of my skin.

| Sally Deen