Mekhyi Bristol

The Situation I Was Born Into

I grew up thinking it was my fault

That it was my fault that people look at me different

But I viewed everyone as human

That it was my fault that I felt unaccepted in a room

But I love meeting new people and seeing others smile

That it was my fault that I posed a threat to others

But I have never and would never think to harm anyone

I was born into that belief that I was guilty

From young, I realized that I’m being watched when I enter a store

I learned not to look too much, touch too much or stand in one place for too long

Feeling guilty for a crime the second I walk through the doors

Being pulled over multiple times for foolish reasons

Then having to miss class to sit in a court room for going six miles over

Drugs, needles, bongs and alcohol all found in the vehicle

Then hearing that their items were confiscated and told to do push-ups outside the car

No punishment, fines, or court dates

I thought trying to be someone I’m not would change everything

If I dress different, talk different and fit an image I’m not

It would lessen my chances of being racially profiled

Nothing changed, I’m still in a worse situation

When I get stopped by an officer, my skin speaks before my mouth does

I love everyone regardless of race, religion, gender or any differences

I’m in a situation where I can utilize my resources to help others

I’m proud of being Black!

Incomplete Morning

I woke up early this morning, that is weird

Lately, I have been sleeping in so much that I have grown a beard

Brush my teeth and then take a shower

My morning routine is finished, and it’s only been an hour

I open my fridge to find something to eat

I did everything I should, but I still feel incomplete

I know what it is, something I discovered in college

It was with me almost everyday everyday like it was my hostage

You guessed it right, yes, it’s my coffee

May I get medium caramel iced latte, apply the whip cream softly

They say America runs on Dunkin

Now I understand because this morning I needed a coffee to function

This taste so amazing, exactly what I needed today

Now back in my house until coronavirus goes away