Seeing Our Selves

No matter,
that I was told to
devalue her.
Resilient,
with kaleidoscopic
beauty.
Flourishing,
even without
nourishment.


Told to embrace
apologies for oppression.
Or pull the frayed edges
of fabric we have woven
holding our tale
in our words.


How do I see you through the
tangled caricature?
Us? Sharing story
over dinner as we
carefully weave
soul strands together
or the serenity of your smile,
as you greet me with peace
on the subway platform.