Where I Come From By: Meshell Baylor

I come from pigtails and pressing combs
Say your prayers before you shut your eyes
Double Dutch playing
Hopscotch hopping
Ride your bike up and down the block one more time
Oh, I’m goanna tell my momma
You but better be in this house before the streetlights come on
Kind of child.

I am from peppermint in pickles
Lollipops and patty cake
What yo mama say, do not sass me girl
It takes a village to raise a child community
I am from the sweet smells of neck bones, black eye peas and greens
Hot water corn bread, and you better say grace before you dive in
Type of child.

I am from Bobby Blue Bland, B.B. King, and Otis Redding
Put that James Brown hit me one more time
I am black and I’m proud
Type of child.

I am from “You have your momma’s eyes and your daddy’s smile”
God bless the child that’s got her own
Type of child
I am from Monday night prayer, Wednesday night bible study, and Friday Choir rehearsal
And praise his name on that blessed Sabbath day
Type of child

In spirit and in life I continue to strive on with being that of which I am ….
Jolly, and courageous
Respectful, grateful
Strong, black, blessed free
I am that type of child.

Copyright © 2024 Meshell Baylor All Rights Reserved.