I stand before you among the many shades of pink
I know that if I don't adapt I could possibly sink
I know among the shades of color I stand out
I bite my tongue I try not to shout
I want to be embrace
Not trying to lighten the color of my face
Embrace my curly hair
Don't be so obvious try not to stare
I know that if I don't follow the program what is at stake
I will be face with evil looks, clutch purses, and smiles that are fake
Oh sure I pretend to be one of the gang
And that its me you love to go out and hang
But I know the truth its clear to me
But I wouldn't expect you to be able to see
See in your world its ok to be you with your long blond hair tossing it with
no cares
I'm the girl that you'll let take care of your children, clean your bathrooms, and oh yes don't forget to vacuum those stairs
You speak to me as if I don't understand
As if I just got of the banana boat new to this land
But that's ok I know my role
And I know that after a while my resentment, fear, and sadness will takes its toll
I know that I won't be able to change your view
This is something I need to do
I guess I can always try to change your mind, go against the grain
Should I bother with the strain?
I'm afraid that no matter what things will always remain the same
So here I stand among the many shades of pink
Be careful I may not be who you think

Giselly Soto
Boston, MA