The first thing I remember learning about America, in elementary school, is our nickname: the Melting Pot. Because of all the cultures & creeds that influence and are influenced by us. Somehow though, we're still afraid to acknowledge obvious things like I am white & You are brown. We don't say it with our chests.

And right now, I admit, I'm wondering if I should ever read this poem out loud. Because I'm afraid to say the wrong thing. Echo some daily trauma, request you tend my emotional garden.