Grandmothers

I never met you, who came before me.

A grainy image holds all the emotions of my lifetime. 

I see my path in your dusty shoes, the love I have known in the tattered folds of your skirt.

What will test me is in the wrinkle of your brow, the trepidation on your face.

Your eyes are both the innocence and wisdom that will help me to grow.

Your strong cheekbones tell me I will survive a million tears.

Your jet hair is strength; the white is protection.

The tar paper shack you stand in front of is a reminder that a house is only a shelter, and family is home. 

I thank you Grandmothers for the gifts you didn’t know you would leave to me. 

I thank you for what you gave, so I could be. 

I know your heart and I honor your power.